Old Time Collector Kennedy Half Dollars: There have been signs on the august Kennedy Half Dollar coin from the beginning of the sixties that have touched on the need to honor the memory of President John F. Kennedy. The rare ones are literally selling over $250,000. Those coins can’t be touched with a 10-foot pole. Everyone who is fortunate enough to have a collection or inherited some of such coins may now be checking if a fortune lies even within.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| First Year of Issue | 1964 |
| Composition | 90% silver (1964), 40% silver (1965-1970), clad (after) |
| Most Valuable Varieties | 1964 SMS, 1966 No FG, 1970-D, 1974-D DDO, etc. |
| Highest Recorded Price | Over $250,000 |
| Official Source | U.S. Mint |
Some rare Kennedy Half Dollars are worth a small fortune, with some pieces fetching more than $250,000! Inspect every coin in this type of collection. Experienced numismatist or not, knowing what makes these coins worthy is the key to uncovering a treasure.
Why Are Kennedy Half-Dollars So Worthy of Value?
Numerous factors will make Kennedy Half Dollars command a high price such as:
- Mint Error: Errors in the striking or design of coins can yield premiums.
- Special Finishes: The limited editions such as Special Mint Sets (SMS) are also in demand.
- Low Mintage Figures: Coins that are produced in low volume would be much more valuable.
- Condition and Grading: A coin will fetch high prices if it is considered pristine when it comes to grading by professional services like PCGS or NGC.
- Historical Significance: It embodies many people’s sentimental reasons for basically why the few collect that drives it more.
Let’s look at six actual rare Kennedy Half Dollars that have attracted so much value and give information on how you can identify them.
Kennedy Half Dollar, Special Mint Set (SMS), 1964
The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar is unique and immensely valuable. SMS coins are satin-finish coins with particular characteristics distinguishing them from both proof and business strike coins, namely the presence of sharper details and square rims.
- Approximate Value: Over $250,000 in choice grades
- Notable Sale: One example traded for $156,000 in 2019
- Identification Points: Satin finish without that of the proof-like mirror
Recommendation: If you suspect that it is an SMS coin, submit it for grading and authentication by a professional service. Many of these coins find their way into collections that have been passed down through the family.
1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
The Accented Hair type displays stronger highlights of hair above Kennedy’s ear that were faded on later strikes due to public feedback. Rare and very sought-after.
- Value For Money: PR68, up to $150,000-or-so
- Identification Point: Heavy hair details upon Kennedy’s head
- Mintage: Less than 100,000 known ones
- Where To Find: Check any 1964 proof sets in order to ascertain whether or not you have this variety. Many collectors do not even realize that they have this rare coin.
1966 SMS No “FG” (Initials) Kennedy Half Dollar
Some of these coins from the 1966 Special Mint Set were struck without the letters “FG,” which stand for the designer Frank Gasparro, being present on the reverse. Their missing “FG” initials render these coins extremely rare.
- Price Estimate: Above $250,000
- Key Identifier: Missing “FG” initials behind eagle’s tail feathers
- Pro Tip: Under magnification, make a close examination of the reverse to confirm. These error coins are almost impossible to catch without severe scrutiny.
1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar was produced only for the special Mint Set and never released for circulation; thus, it remains a collector’s item of high demand.
- Estimated Value: Mint condition may reach up to $50,000
- Mintage: 2.1 million
- Key Identifier: Denver mint mark (“D”)
- Collector Insight: Resale value, should you choose to sell, is maximized if the coin is left in its original government packaging. Coins taken out of the set may decline in value.
1974-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) Kennedy Half Dollar
In a major error of 1974, the obverse states doubled inscriptions, particularly on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Value Estimate: $40,000+ in MS65 condition
- Main Identifier: Doubling in visible lettering
- Where to Search: Search for doubling with a jeweler’s loupe on 1974-D coins. Subtle error, but valuable.
1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar
This coin was issued as part of a 2-coin set with a Robert F. Kennedy commemorative dollar and is distinguished by its low mintage and heavily frosted appearance.
- Value Estimate: As much as $20,000 in perfect condition
- Mintage: 62,000
- Key Identifier: Frosted Matte finish, Deep Strike details
- Investment Tip: Reserve the coin in the original U.S. Mint packaging to preserve value. Coins followed by certificates of authenticity are also very much in demand and gain value from this.
Kennedy Half Dollars – How to Check Their Values
When you suspect you may possess one such rare coin, consult the following procedures:
- Examine Your Coin: Using a magnifying glass, key features must be checked.
- Check for Mint Marks and Dates: Search for the mint year and mint place.
- Check with a Grading Service: PCGS and NGC are examples of organizations that give professional opinions.
- Find Recent Sales: Go to an auction site for value comparisons.
- Store Coins Properly: Coin holders, besides ensuring they are not damaged, will help keep their condition.
- Insurance: Very valuable coins must be insured against loss or theft.
FAQS:
How do I know if I have a rare Kennedy Half Dollar?
Check for key features like mint marks, errors, silver content, and proof finishes. Rarity can also be determined with the assistance of a magnifying glass or professional grading.
What makes the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar so valuable?
They are highly coveted by collectors as very few are known to exist with properties of crisp detail and satin finish.
Are all 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars valuable?
The majority of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are comprised of 90% silver and have worth above face value; however, only a few select varieties – SMS and Accented Hair Proof – are valued in thousands.