The value of a half dollar coin depends on several factors, including its date, mintmark, condition, and any errors or special features.
Here’s a breakdown by design type and year:
- These coins contain 90% silver.
- Key dates with higher values include:
– 1916-S
– 1921
– 1938-D
- A 1917 Walking Liberty half dollar (S) graded uncirculated could be worth $1,300.
- A 1947 Walking Liberty half-dollar, graded by NGC at a mint state 68, sold for $30,000.
- The 1921-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar is exceptionally rare in high grades, with top-condition examples potentially worth over $180,000.
- These coins also contain 90% silver.
- Key dates and varieties include:
– 1949-S
– 1955
– 1961 P Doubled Die Reverse (Proof)
- A 1962 Franklin half-dollar with no mintmark, in very fine condition, is valued at $141,000.
- A 1955 Franklin Half Dollar with Full Bell Lines (FBL) in high grade (MS 67+) could command over $50,000.
- 1964: 90% silver, worth around $10-$15 each.
– Some 1964 proof coins have an “accented hair” variety, which can be valuable.
– A 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar SP68 (Special Mint Set) sold for $156,000.
– A 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, ‘Accented Hair’ PR69, set a price record of $46,800.
- 1965-1970: 40% silver, worth around $5-$10 each.
- 1971-present: Copper-nickel clad, generally worth face value (50 cents), unless they are special collector sets or have errors.
- Some proofs or special issues can be valuable, regardless of their metal content.
- A 1992 Kennedy half-dollar in uncirculated condition can reach around $500,000 or more, depending on the grade and demand.
- A [1968 Kennedy Half Dollar Proof graded PF70] sold for a record $24,000 in a 2023 auction.
- Condition (Grade): Higher grades (e.g., Mint State, Proof) fetch higher prices.
- Rarity: Lower mintages, historically significant coins, or coins with errors or special features tend to be more valuable.
- Demand: Market demand from collectors and investors can influence the value.
- Metal Content: Silver coins (especially pre-1965 90% silver and 1965-1970 40% silver) have intrinsic value based on the current price of silver.
- Most modern half dollars (1971 onwards) are worth their face value unless they are a special collector issue or have errors.
- Consulting with a professional coin dealer or using reputable online resources is recommended for accurate valuation.