9 Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars Still In Circulation – Are You Sitting On A Fortune?
The Kennedy Half Dollar, introduced in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, has become one of the most iconic coins in American history.
While many of these coins remain in circulation, certain rare and valuable varieties have caught the attention of collectors and investors alike. If you’ve been holding onto some Kennedy Half Dollars, you might be sitting on a small fortune.
Here’s a guide to nine valuable Kennedy Half Dollars that could be worth far more than their face value of 50 cents.
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver)
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is the first coin in the series and the only one made of 90% silver.
- Mintage: 273 million (Philadelphia and Denver Mints combined).
- Value: In circulated condition, it’s worth around $10. In uncirculated condition, values range from $20 to $100.
2. 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
This special mint set (SMS) coin is incredibly rare and distinct from the regular 1964 coins.
- Unique Features: High-quality strike and satin-like finish.
- Value: Often sells for over $5,000, depending on condition.
3. 1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar is another highly sought-after coin, known for its high-quality minting.
- Value: Depending on grade, it can fetch between $200 and $2,500.
4. 1969-D Kennedy Half Dollar (40% Silver)
From 1965 to 1970, Kennedy Half Dollars contained 40% silver. The 1969-D is one of the more valuable coins in this category.
- Mintage: 129 million.
- Value: Typically sells for $6-$15, with higher grades reaching $50+.
5. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar (40% Silver)
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar was only issued in Mint Sets, making it relatively scarce.
- Mintage: Just 2.15 million.
- Value: Around $40-$100 in mint condition.
6. 1976 Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar (Silver Clad)
This coin, issued to celebrate the U.S. Bicentennial, features a unique reverse design with Independence Hall.
- Composition: Silver-clad versions were part of collector sets.
- Value: Silver-clad Bicentennial halves can range from $10 to $30.
7. 1998-S Kennedy Half Dollar (Matte Proof)
The 1998-S Matte Proof Kennedy Half Dollar was part of a special collector set honoring President Kennedy’s 80th birthday.
- Mintage: Just 62,000 coins.
- Value: Typically worth between $200 and $300.
8. 1995-D Doubled Die Kennedy Half Dollar
A rare mint error, the 1995-D Doubled Die is prized for its distinct doubling in the inscriptions.
- Value: Depending on the severity of the doubling and the coin’s grade, it can be worth $50 to $500.
9. 2014-W Kennedy Half Dollar (Gold)
This special release marked the 50th anniversary of the Kennedy Half Dollar.
- Composition: ¾ oz. of 24-karat gold.
- Value: Often sells for $1,000 or more due to its gold content and collector appeal.
| Year/Type | Mintage | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1964 (90% Silver) | 273 million | $10-$100 |
| 1964 SMS | Extremely Rare | $5,000+ |
| 1966 SMS | Rare | $200-$2,500 |
| 1969-D (40% Silver) | 129 million | $6-$50 |
| 1970-D (40% Silver) | 2.15 million | $40-$100 |
| 1976 Bicentennial (Silver) | Limited | $10-$30 |
| 1998-S Matte Proof | 62,000 | $200-$300 |
| 1995-D Doubled Die | Rare | $50-$500 |
| 2014-W (Gold) | Special Issue | $1,000+ |
Why Are Kennedy Half Dollars So Valuable?
- Composition: Early coins (1964-1970) contained silver, adding intrinsic value.
- Mint Errors: Rare varieties like doubled dies or SMS coins are highly sought after.
- Limited Mintage: Coins like the 1998-S Matte Proof and 1970-D were produced in low numbers, making them rare.
- Historical Significance: The Kennedy Half Dollars holds emotional and historical value as a tribute to a beloved president.
The Kennedy Half Dollars series offers collectors a fascinating glimpse into American history, with coins ranging from affordable silver pieces to rare collector editions worth thousands.
While many of these coins are still in circulation, their rarity and historical significance make them valuable treasures for numismatists.
Next time you check your spare change or coin collection, keep an eye out for these valuable Kennedy Half Dollars—you might just discover a hidden fortune!
FAQs
Are Kennedy Half Dollars still in circulation?
Yes, Kennedy Half Dollars are still produced but are primarily issued for collectors. Some earlier coins can still be found in circulation, though rare varieties are harder to come by.
How can I identify a valuable Kennedy Half Dollar?
Look for key dates, mintmarks, and unique features like mint errors or proof finishes. Professional grading services can help verify their value.
What is the most valuable Kennedy Half Dollar?
The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar is one of the most valuable, with prices exceeding $5,000 due to its rarity and unique finish.
