The value of a Kennedy half dollar coin depends on several factors, including the year it was minted, its silver content, its condition, and whether it’s a special variety or contains any errors.
Here’s a breakdown of the key factors affecting a Kennedy half dollar’s value:
- 1964 Kennedy half dollars: These coins contain 90% silver, making them the most valuable due to their intrinsic silver value.
– According to the NGC Price Guide as of August 2025, a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar in circulated condition is valued between $13.75 and $14.50. However, in pristine uncirculated condition, they can sell for as much as $5200.
– The melt value of a 90% silver half dollar (0.3617 oz ASW) is $13.83 as of August 13, 2025, based on a silver price of $38.25/oz.
- 1965-1970 Kennedy half dollars: These coins have a lower silver content of 40%.
– Their melt value (0.1479 oz ASW) is $5.66 as of August 13, 2025.
– According to the NGC Price Guide, as of August 2025, a Kennedy Half Dollar from 1965 in circulated condition is worth between $5.50 and $6.
– In uncirculated condition, they can sell for up to $2650, although the value depends heavily on the specific year and condition.
- 1971-present Kennedy half dollars: These coins are made of a copper-nickel blend and contain no silver (except for special collector editions).
– They are generally only worth their face value (50 cents) unless they are in exceptional condition or have a rare error.
- The better the condition of the coin, the higher its value.
- Uncirculated coins (coins with no signs of wear) are more valuable than circulated coins.
- Coins with sharp details and luster command higher prices.
- Some years and varieties of Kennedy half dollars are more valuable due to lower mintage numbers or unique features.
- Examples of key dates and varieties include:
– 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar: This extremely rare coin, potentially an experimental piece, has a unique satin finish and commands a very high price. One in perfect condition sold for $156,000.
– 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar: This coin has a significantly lower mintage than other 40% silver halves and was only available in mint sets.
– 1972-D Kennedy Half Dollar, No ‘FG’: Missing the designer’s initials due to overzealous die polishing, this variety is rare and valuable.
– 1974-D Kennedy Half Dollar, Doubled Die Obverse: Features noticeable doubling in the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST”.
– 1964 Accented Hair Proof: This proof variety has stronger hair detail than regular strikes and is considered scarce.
- Errors that occur during the minting process, such as double dies, off-center strikes, or overstruck coins, can significantly increase a coin’s value due to their rarity.
In summary
- The most valuable Kennedy Half Dollars are generally 1964 issues (90% silver) and those with key dates, varieties, or mint errors.
- Coins from 1965-1970 (40% silver) also have value, but less than the 1964 issues.
- Most Kennedy Half Dollars minted after 1970 are worth face value unless they have a rare error or are in pristine condition.
If you believe you have a valuable Kennedy half dollar, it’s recommended to consult a reputable coin dealer or professional coin grading service for an accurate assessment of its condition and value.
What years of Kennedy Half Dollars are worth money?
The most valuable Kennedy Half Dollars include the 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) coin, which can be worth thousands of dollars, and the 1964-D Doubled Die Obverse variety. Other valuable examples are the 1970-D, 1998-S Matte Proof, and the 1964 Proof coins.