5 Most Expensive Kennedy Half Dollars Coins Ever Sold – Plus 5 You Can Still Find!
The Kennedy Half Dollar, introduced in 1964 as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy, holds a special place in American coinage.
While millions were minted over the years, certain rare and valuable Kennedy Half Dollars have fetched astonishing prices at auctions, making them the centerpiece of many collections. Remarkably, some valuable coins are still out there, waiting to be discovered.
This guide highlights the 5 most expensive Kennedy Half Dollars ever sold and 5 coins you might still find in circulation or coin rolls. Could one of these treasures be hiding in your pocket?
5 Most Expensive Kennedy Half Dollars Coins Ever Sold
1. 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
- Why It’s Valuable: This coin was part of a Special Mint Set (SMS) and is exceptionally rare, with fewer than 20 known examples.
- Record Sale Price: $108,000 (sold at auction in 2019).
- Unique Feature: Frosted devices and mirror-like fields distinguish it from standard 1964 coins.
2. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
- Why It’s Valuable: Minted only for collectors in uncirculated sets, it has a low mintage of just 2.15 million.
- Record Sale Price: $9,000 for an MS67 specimen.
- Unique Feature: Composed of 40% silver, this coin is scarce in high grades.
3. 1964-D Doubled Die Obverse
- Why It’s Valuable: A minting error caused noticeable doubling on the obverse inscriptions.
- Record Sale Price: $7,200.
- Unique Feature: Doubling is most prominent in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
4. 1998-S Matte Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
- Why It’s Valuable: Produced in a special set commemorating President Kennedy’s 80th birthday, only 62,000 were minted.
- Record Sale Price: $6,000.
- Unique Feature: Matte finish with sharp details.
5. 1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
- Why It’s Valuable: Known for its high-quality strike and satin-like appearance.
- Record Sale Price: $4,600.
- Unique Feature: Only a small number were struck in Special Mint Sets.
5 Kennedy Half Dollars You Can Still Find
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver)
- Why It’s Valuable: The first-year issue and the only Kennedy Half Dollar made with 90% silver.
- Estimated Value: $10-$50, depending on condition.
2. 1969-D Kennedy Half Dollar (40% Silver)
- Why It’s Valuable: Part of the 1965-1970 series containing 40% silver.
- Estimated Value: $6-$15 in circulated condition.
3. 1976 Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar
- Why It’s Valuable: Features a unique reverse design of Independence Hall and a dual date (1776-1976).
- Estimated Value: $1-$10 for circulated coins; silver-clad versions fetch higher prices.
4. 1995-D Doubled Die Kennedy Half Dollar
- Why It’s Valuable: A minting error makes this coin highly collectible.
- Estimated Value: $50-$500, depending on the severity of the doubling.
5. 2002-P and 2002-D Kennedy Half Dollars
- Why It’s Valuable: Issued only in limited mint sets and not for general circulation.
- Estimated Value: $2-$5 for uncirculated coins.
| Coin | Year | Record Price/Value | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 SMS Kennedy | 1964 | $108,000 | Special Mint Set rarity |
| 1970-D Kennedy | 1970 | $9,000 | Low mintage; 40% silver |
| 1964-D Doubled Die Obverse | 1964 | $7,200 | Mint error with prominent doubling |
| 1998-S Matte Proof | 1998 | $6,000 | Matte finish; low mintage |
| 1966 SMS Kennedy | 1966 | $4,600 | Exceptional quality strike |
| 1964 (90% Silver) | 1964 | $10-$50 (in circulation) | First-year issue with high silver content |
| 1969-D (40% Silver) | 1969 | $6-$15 (in circulation) | Circulating silver coin |
| 1976 Bicentennial | 1976 | $1-$10 | Commemorative reverse with Independence Hall design |
| 1995-D Doubled Die | 1995 | $50-$500 | Minting error with doubled inscriptions |
| 2002-P and 2002-D | 2002 | $2-$5 | Low-mintage coins available only in mint sets |
Why Are Kennedy Half Dollars So Valuable?
- Silver Content: Coins minted from 1964-1970 contain silver, boosting their intrinsic value.
- Low Mintage: Limited production coins like the 1970-D or 1998-S Matte Proof are rare.
- Mint Errors: Doubled dies and SMS coins add unique collectibility.
- Historical Significance: The Kennedy Half Dollar memorializes one of America’s most beloved presidents.
The Kennedy Half Dollars remains a fascinating and collectible series, with some coins selling for thousands of dollars at auction and others still hiding in circulation.
Whether you’re searching for a rare mint error or simply hoping to add a first-year issue to your collection, the Kennedy Half Dollar offers opportunities for collectors at every level.
Check your change or coin collections—you might just find a hidden treasure!
FAQs
What is the most valuable Kennedy Half Dollar ever sold?
The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar, sold for $108,000, holds the record as the most valuable Kennedy Half Dollar.
Can I still find Kennedy Half Dollars in circulation?
Yes, Kennedy Half Dollars are still in circulation, although rare varieties like the 1964-D Doubled Die or 1970-D are less common.
How can I identify a rare Kennedy Half Dollar?
Look for key dates, mintmarks, and unique features like mint errors or special finishes. Professional grading services can help authenticate and grade your coin.
