The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar- How A Minting Error Made It A $10,000 Coin
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is a celebrated coin that holds immense historical significance and monetary value.
Minted to honor President John F. Kennedy after his assassination, this half dollar quickly became a favorite among collectors.
However, what truly skyrocketed its worth is a rare minting error that has made specific coins from this series worth up to $10,000.
In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating details about this iconic coin, explore the minting errors that boost its value, and reveal how you might spot one of these treasures in your collection.
The Origin of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
The Kennedy Half Dollar was introduced in 1964, just months after the assassination of President Kennedy in November 1963.
This coin was seen as a tribute to the beloved president, with its design featuring a striking portrait of Kennedy on the obverse, created by Gilroy Roberts, and the Presidential Seal on the reverse, designed by Frank Gasparro.
Initially minted in 90% silver, the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar marked the final year U.S. circulating coins contained this high level of silver.
This fact alone makes it valuable to collectors and investors, but certain rare errors elevate its worth even further.
The Rare Minting Error That Makes It Worth $10,000
What sets some 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars apart is a minting error that occurred during production. The error, known as the Accented Hair variety, resulted from an early design featuring additional details in Kennedy’s hair.
While this design was later modified, a small number of coins with the Accented Hair detail were released into circulation.
Another rare error is the 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Kennedy Half Dollar, which was not originally intended for public release. Only a handful of these coins are known to exist, making them highly sought after by collectors.
Key Features of the Valuable 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
1. Accented Hair Variety
- This design features extra details in Kennedy’s hair, making it distinct from standard versions.
- Found primarily in proof coins minted in Philadelphia.
2. 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
- These coins were produced with an exceptionally high-quality strike, resulting in a mirror-like surface.
- Only 12 known specimens exist, making it one of the rarest coins in U.S. history.
3. Double Die Obverse Error
- Some coins feature doubling on the obverse, particularly in the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- These errors significantly increase the coin’s value.
Value of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
The value of a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar depends on its variety, condition, and any errors. Here’s a breakdown:
| Type | Condition | Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar | Circulated | $10 – $20 |
| Standard 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar | Mint State | $50 – $500 |
| 1964 Accented Hair Variety | Proof Condition | $250 – $5,000 |
| 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar | Mint State | $5,000 – $10,000+ |
How to Spot a Rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
- Inspect the Hair Detail: Look closely at Kennedy’s hair. If it has more pronounced accents, it could be the Accented Hair variety.
- Search for Proof-Like Surfaces: Coins with a mirror-like finish might be from the Special Mint Set (SMS).
- Check for Doubling: Use a magnifying glass to spot any doubling in the inscriptions on the obverse side.
Why Collectors Love the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
Collectors are drawn to the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar for several reasons:
- Historical Significance: It marks a tribute to President Kennedy.
- Silver Content: With 90% silver composition, it holds intrinsic value.
- Scarcity of Errors: The Accented Hair and SMS varieties are incredibly rare.
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is more than just a coin; it’s a piece of history that has captured the imagination of collectors worldwide.
Whether due to its high silver content, historical significance, or rare minting errors, this coin holds immense value.
If you happen to come across a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar in your collection, inspect it carefully—you might just discover a hidden treasure worth $10,000!
FAQs
How can I confirm if my 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is valuable?
Look for distinguishing features like the Accented Hair detail, proof-like surfaces, or doubling on the obverse. Certification from a professional grading service can also verify its value.
Why is the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar so rare?
Only 12 of these coins are known to exist, as they were part of experimental minting and not released to the public.
Where can I sell a rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar?
You can sell rare coins at auctions, through reputable coin dealers, or online platforms specializing in numismatics.
