The current design of the U.S. half dollar coin, also known as the 50 cent coin, features President John F. Kennedy. He has been on the half dollar since 1964.
Prior to the Kennedy half dollar, other figures and designs were featured on the 50-cent coin:
- Liberty: For over 150 years, beginning in 1794, various depictions of Liberty appeared on the half dollar, [according to the U.S. Mint Coin Classroom (.gov)].
- Benjamin Franklin: In 1948, the half dollar design was changed to feature Benjamin Franklin on the obverse (heads) side and the Liberty Bell on the reverse (tails).
- Kennedy Half Dollar: Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963, a bill was signed into law authorizing his image to appear on the half dollar. This coin was first released to the public in March 1964 and remains the current design.
- Bicentennial Design: During 1975 and 1976, a special Bicentennial design was issued, featuring a dual date (1776-1976) on the obverse and an image of Independence Hall on the reverse.
In summary, the current 50 cent coin features President John F. Kennedy, but it is important to note that earlier half dollars showcased other designs and individuals, including allegorical depictions of Liberty and Benjamin Franklin.
