The fifty-cent coin, also known as the half dollar in the United States, holds a significant place in numismatic and historical contexts across different countries.
- Early History: The US Mint first struck half dollars in 1794, initially featuring an allegorical representation of Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse.
- Design Changes: Over time, the half dollar design evolved, with allegorical depictions eventually giving way to portraits of historical figures. In 1948, the Franklin half dollar debuted, featuring Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse.
- Kennedy Half Dollar: In 1964, following President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, the Kennedy half dollar was introduced, featuring his profile on the obverse and the Presidential Seal on the reverse. The design briefly featured Independence Hall on the reverse in 1975 and 1976 to commemorate the bicentennial of the Declaration of Independence.
- Composition: Initially minted in 90% silver, the Kennedy half dollar’s composition changed to 40% silver in 1965 due to rising silver prices, and then to a copper-nickel clad composition (75% copper and 25% nickel) in 1971, which remains in use today.
- Circulation and Collectibility: Although once a common circulating coin, the half dollar’s usage declined significantly after 2002. Since then, the US Mint has primarily produced them for collectors in annual sets, rolls, and bags. However, the Federal Reserve may still order them for circulation, and they became available for general circulation again in 2021. Rare and valuable half dollars exist, such as certain Proof coins and those with specific errors, like the 1974-D Doubled Die Obverse variety.
- Collecting Half Dollars: Collecting half dollars is a popular pastime due to their historical significance and the variety of designs and compositions available.
Many other countries use the term “half dollar” or have coins with a value of 50 cents. For example, countries like Australia and Canada issue their own unique fifty-cent pieces or half dollars, often with distinctive designs and compositions. The Eurozone also features a 50 euro cent coin with designs that vary by the issuing country, while adhering to common European guidelines.
Which 50-cent piece is worth $15000?
An extremely rare 1988 coin could be worth nearly $15,000 due to an error by the Royal Australian Mint. The coins commemorate the 200th anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet. However, instead of replacing the standard coat of arms with this design, some coins feature both designs.