The most recent version of the United States 50-cent coin, also known as the half dollar, features President John F. Kennedy on the obverse (front).
Here’s a breakdown of the imagery on the Kennedy half dollar:
- Obverse (heads): A profile of President John F. Kennedy.
- Reverse (tails): The Presidential Seal, which includes a heraldic eagle with a shield, holding an olive branch (symbolizing peace) and a bundle of 13 arrows (symbolizing war). The eagle is encircled by 50 stars representing the states.
While the Kennedy Half Dollar was first issued in 1964 and continues to be minted, most are now produced for collectors rather than general circulation. However, the Federal Reserve may still order them for circulation, so you might occasionally encounter one.
It’s important to note that the half dollar has featured other figures throughout its history:
- Before 1948: Different allegorical representations of Liberty were featured on the half dollar.
- 1948-1963: The Franklin Half Dollar depicted Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse.
- 1975-1976: To commemorate the Bicentennial of American independence, a temporary design was used, featuring Independence Hall in Philadelphia on the reverse.
Who is the person on the 50 cent coin?
Good point! Since 1964, the half dollar depicts the profile of President John F. Kennedy on the obverse and the seal of the president of the United States on the reverse.