The Kennedy Half Dollar isn’t just spare change—it’s a piece of American history. First released in 1964, this coin became an instant symbol of national pride after the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
While most Kennedy Half Dollars are worth face value, a few rare and special versions are worth thousands—or even millions. One particular 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is estimated to be worth a staggering $5.9 million. Could you have one hiding in your collection? Let’s find out.
The Story Behind the Kennedy Half Dollar
The Kennedy Half Dollar was first minted in 1964 as a tribute to America’s 35th president.
- Obverse design: Created by Gilroy Roberts, featuring Kennedy’s portrait.
- Reverse design: Created by Frank Gasparro, showing the presidential seal.
- Composition: 90% silver in the first year (1964), later reduced to 40% silver, then to copper-nickel clad.
The release was met with huge demand. Americans saw it not just as a coin but as a memorial to a beloved leader.
Why Some Kennedy Half Dollars Are Extremely Valuable
Not all half dollars are valuable, but collectors seek specific ones based on three key factors:
- Rarity – Low mintage or special mint sets.
- Condition – Coins in Proof or Mint State (MS) grades bring the highest prices.
- Errors & Varieties – Misstrikes, missing mint marks, and unusual finishes can make a coin unique.
For example, transitional-year coins or experimental trial strikes can be worth tens of thousands—or millions.
The $5.9 Million Kennedy Half Dollar
The most famous Kennedy Half Dollar is a 1964 experimental proof strike.
- Struck in 90% silver.
- Believed to be a trial run at the U.S. Mint.
- Extremely rare—only a handful exist.
- In near-perfect condition, which skyrockets its value.
This coin could sell for $5.9 million or more, making it one of the most expensive coins in the world.
Other Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars
Aside from the legendary $5.9 million piece, several other Kennedy Half Dollars are highly collectible:
| Year & Type | Why It’s Valuable | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) | Rare experimental finish | $100,000+ |
| 1968-S Proof with cameo | Sharp contrast, scarce in high grade | $1,000–$7,500 |
| 1970-D Kennedy Half | Not released for circulation | $500–$3,000 |
| Error coins (various years) | Double strikes, off-center, missing mint marks | $100–$10,000+ |
How to Check If Your Kennedy Half Dollar Is Valuable
Want to know if your Kennedy Half Dollar could be worth more than 50 cents? Here’s what to do:
1. Check the Year
- 1964 coins are 90% silver (high demand).
- 1965–1970 coins are 40% silver (still collectible).
2. Look for Mint Marks
- “D” = Denver Mint
- “S” = San Francisco Mint
- “No mint mark” = Philadelphia Mint
Rare mint locations can increase value.
3. Inspect the Condition
- Mint State (MS) or Proof coins bring the most money.
- Worn or scratched coins are usually worth less.
4. Search for Errors
- Double die, off-center strikes, missing details = valuable.
5. Compare the Finish
- Proof coins have mirror-like surfaces.
- SMS coins have unique satiny finishes.
Why People Collect Kennedy Half Dollars
Collectors love this coin because it represents:
- American history – A tribute to President Kennedy.
- Silver content – Early issues contain real silver.
- Variety – Dozens of mint marks, finishes, and error coins to hunt.
- Accessibility – Affordable for beginners, valuable for experts.
FAQs About Kennedy Half Dollars
Q1. How much silver is in a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar?
A: It contains 90% silver, about 0.3617 troy ounces.
Q2. What years of Kennedy Half Dollars are silver?
A: 1964 (90% silver), 1965–1970 (40% silver). After 1970, most are copper-nickel clad.
Q3. Can you still find Kennedy Half Dollars in circulation?
A: Rarely, but banks sometimes have them in rolls. Most valuable ones are found in collections or estates.
Q4. What is the rarest Kennedy Half Dollar?
A: The 1964 SMS and the experimental proof strike, valued at millions.
Q5. How do I know if my coin is valuable?
A: Check the year, mint mark, condition, and errors. For certainty, submit to PCGS or NGC for grading.
Final Thoughts
The Kennedy Half Dollar is more than money—it’s history in your hands. While most are worth face value, rare versions can fetch thousands to millions of dollars.
So, if you have a jar of old coins, don’t overlook those half dollars. You might be holding a fortune without even knowing it.