Generally, a half-dollar coin is worth its face value of $0.50.
However, certain factors can make a half dollar worth more than its face value:
- Silver Content: Half dollars minted in 1964 contain 90% silver, and those minted between 1965 and 1970 contain 40% silver. The intrinsic value of the silver can make these coins worth more than their face value, depending on the current market price of silver.
- Rarity and Condition: Rare half dollars with low mintage numbers, special designs, or unique features are highly sought after by collectors. The better the condition of the coin (with minimal wear and original luster), the higher its value.
- Minting Errors: Coins with errors or variations made during the minting process are rare and can be worth a significant amount to collectors.
- Proof Coins: Some half dollars are proof coins, meaning they were produced specifically for collectors and often have a higher value due to their quality and limited mintage.
Some examples of valuable half dollars include:
- The 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half Dollar , which can be worth millions due to its rarity and pristine condition.
- The 1797 Draped Bust Half Dollar , with a recorded auction value of $1,527,500.
- The 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar , which sold for $763,750 at auction.
To determine the value of your half dollar , you should:
- Identify the type of half dollar you have , such as a Flowing Hair, Draped Bust, Capped Bust, Seated Liberty, Barber, Walking Liberty, Franklin, or Kennedy Half Dollar.
- Check the date and mint mark , as these can indicate whether the coin is a key date or has a low mintage.
- Evaluate the condition of the coin , as higher grades command higher prices. You can use online resources and price guides to help you do this.
- Consider getting a professional appraisal for rare or valuable coins to determine their exact worth.
While most half dollars are worth face value, it’s always worth checking for rarity and condition to see if you have a hidden treasure.
What year of half dollar coins are valuable?
Thanks for asking. Up to 230 years old in 2024 and worth significantly more than fifty cents, half dollar silver coins minted from 1794 to 1916 are very popular and highly collectible. If you have any of these half dollar silver coins, their value could be thousands of dollars.
How to tell if a half dollar coin is worth anything?
Good point! Proof coins.
Great condition.
Hard to find coins.
Misprints on mint marks.