The value of a 1978 Kennedy half dollar depends on several factors, including its condition, mint mark (or lack thereof), and whether it’s a proof strike.
General Value
- Circulated Condition: In circulated condition, a 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar is typically worth between $0.60 and $0.75, according to the NGC Price Guide as of August 2025.
- Uncirculated Condition: In pristine, uncirculated condition, 1978 half dollars can sell for significantly more.
– Those without a mint mark (Philadelphia mint) can sell for as much as $420.
– Those with a “D” mint mark (Denver mint) can sell for as much as $600.
- Proof Strikes (San Francisco Mint): The 1978-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar, minted at the San Francisco Mint, is generally rarer than business strike coins. It has a legal tender value of $0.50, and 3,127,781 were minted. A “Choice Proof” condition coin from the San Francisco Mint is available from Littleton Coin Company for $29.50.
Error Coins
- 1978 D Kennedy Half Dollar Error “No Fg” Initials: This refers to an error where the designer’s initials on the reverse are missing the letter “F” due to a minting error. These can be quite valuable. An example with this error is listed on eBay for $750. Another listing for a similar coin is available for $50.
- Other Error Coins: Other errors, such as die clash errors or partially missing dates, can also significantly increase a coin’s value, depending on the severity and rarity of the error. For example, a 1978-D Kennedy Half Dollar with a “LARGE STRIKE THROUGH ERROR” is listed on eBay for $125.
Factors Influencing Value
- Condition: The better the condition of the coin (less wear, fewer scratches, higher grade), the more valuable it will be.
- Mint Mark: The presence or absence of a mint mark (P for Philadelphia, D for Denver, or S for San Francisco) can affect the value, especially for uncirculated or proof coins.
- Rarity/Mintage: Coins with lower mintage figures are generally more desirable to collectors, [according to Numiis].
- Errors: Coins with minting errors are particularly sought after by collectors and can command higher prices depending on the type and rarity of the error.
In conclusion, while a standard 1978 Kennedy half dollar in circulated condition is only worth slightly more than its face value, uncirculated examples, particularly those with a Denver mint mark, and error coins can be worth considerably more to collectors.
How much is a 1978 half dollar coin worth?
According to the NGC Price Guide, as of August 2025, a Kennedy Half Dollar from 1978 in circulated condition is worth between $0.60 and $0.75. However, on the open market 1978 Half Dollars in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $420.
What makes a 1978 half dollar rare?
I can help with that. This 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar Double Die Obverse Error is a rare find for collectors and coin enthusiasts alike. The coin features a unique doubled die obverse, which adds to its value and appeal. The coin was minted in Denver, United States, and has been circulated, adding to its historical significance.
Is the 1978 dollar coin worth anything?
Most circulated 1978 dollars are worth face value, but high-grade mint state or error coins can fetch hundreds to thousands of dollars. Proof versions from San Francisco with deep cameo contrast are more valuable to collectors.
What is the error on the 1978 50 cent coin?
From my experience, It is the type of error coin that has been proven to have real value over time. This coin is what is known as a wrong planchet or off-metal planchet error – the 50 cent designs have been struck on a (blank) metal planchet that should have had 20 cent designs on it.