The value of a 50-cent coin (half dollar) depends on several factors, including its date, mint mark, condition, and whether it contains silver.
- Silver Content:
– 1964 Kennedy half dollars are 90% silver and have a melt value well above their face value. According to the NGC Price Guide as of August 2025, they are worth between $13.75 and $14.50 in circulated condition, and up to $5200 in pristine, uncirculated condition.
– 1965-1970 Kennedy half dollars contain 40% silver and also have a melt value higher than 50 cents. A roll of 20 of these coins (face value $10) has a silver value of $116.85 as of August 2025, according to [Monument Metals] . In circulated condition, they are worth between $5.75 and $6.25.
– Half dollars from 1971 onwards (excluding special collector issues) are copper-nickel clad and have no silver content, meaning their value is generally only 50 cents.
- Condition: Coins in better condition (less wear and tear) are more valuable to collectors. The Sheldon scale (P1 to MS70) is used by professional grading services like PCGS and NGC to assess condition. For example, a 1964 Kennedy half dollar in MS67+ (mint state) can sell for up to $5200.
- Rarity/Key Dates: Certain half dollars are considered “key dates” due to low mintage numbers or errors, making them more sought-after and valuable.
– 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar: This is a notable key date because it was only issued in Mint Sets and never released into circulation, resulting in a low mintage. It is worth between $5.75 and $6.25 in circulated condition, but up to $12500 in pristine, uncirculated condition.
– 1964 Accented Hair Kennedy Half Dollar: This variety of the 1964 proof coin has more pronounced lines in Kennedy’s hair and commands a premium.
- Errors: Errors in the minting process, such as doubled dies or coins struck on the wrong planchet, can significantly increase a coin’s value.
In summary, while a standard 50-cent coin found in circulation today is generally worth face value, certain Kennedy Half Dollars from 1964-1970 are worth more due to their silver content. Additionally, rare dates, errors, or coins in high-grade condition can command significant premiums from collectors.
To determine the exact value of your 50-cent coin, it is recommended to:
- Identify the date and mint mark: This will help determine if it contains silver.
- Assess its condition: Look for wear and tear, and consider consulting a professional grader for accurate assessment.
- Consult a coin pricing guide: Resources like the NGC Price Guide or Greysheet can provide approximate values for various conditions.
- Consider getting it professionally graded: If you suspect your coin is valuable, professional grading can authenticate it and establish its precise grade, which will impact its value.
What Kennedy 50 cent coins are valuable?
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Proof-70 (PR-70) – $156,000.
1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar MS-67 – $22,325.
1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar MS-66.
Special Mint Set (SMS) 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars.
1981-S Type 2 Clear S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar.