A simple Kennedy half dollar might not seem special. It’s just 50 cents, right? But in some rare cases, this coin can be worth more than a 1-ounce gold bar, which is around $2,500 today. These coins were first made in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy. Over time, some of them became very valuable.
Let’s learn why some of these coins are worth so much, and how you might find one.
The Value Behind Silver
Kennedy half dollars made in 1964 are 90% silver. This already gives them a good starting value. But collectors don’t just care about silver. They look for rare coins in perfect shape.
One example is the 1964-D half dollar. It was made in Denver. A coin in MS68 grade (almost perfect) sold for $22,325 in 2016. Only a few coins exist in that condition. These are the ones that get big money.
So, silver helps, but rarity and condition make the price go way up.
Mistakes That Make Coins Rich
Sometimes, coins are made with small errors. These errors can make the coin very rare and valuable.
The 1970-D Kennedy half dollar is a great example. Only 2.15 million were made. A coin in MS67 grade sold for $15,000. That’s way more than gold.
Another rare coin is the 1964 Accented Hair half dollar. This version shows extra lines in Kennedy’s hair. If you find one in high grade, it could be worth $20,000 or more.
Other valuable errors include doubled dies. This means the text or images look like they are printed twice. These types of coins can also sell for high prices.
Why Condition Is So Important
The better your coin looks, the more it’s worth. Most coins that are used daily have scratches or marks. That lowers the value.
But if your coin looks brand new, it could be worth a lot. Coins graded MS67 or higher are very rare. A 1968-D half dollar in MS68 condition sold for $12,000 in 2020.
Collectors will pay top dollar for coins with no wear. If your Kennedy half dollar looks perfect, think about getting it graded.
Where You Might Find These Coins
Even though they’re old, Kennedy half dollars are still around. You might find them in your spare change, in a jar at home, or in a roll from the bank.
They’re not used much anymore, so finding one is a fun surprise. Coins from 1964 are especially good because of the silver. But coins from 1970 or ones with errors are great too.
You can also check coin shops, estate sales, or ask family if they have old coins. A small find could turn out to be worth thousands.
What to Look For in a Rare Coin
If you want to know if your Kennedy half dollar is special, check a few things.
First, look at the year and the mint mark. The mint mark is usually on the back, near the eagle’s tail. Good years to look for are 1964 and 1970. Coins with a “D” or no mint mark could be rare.
Use a magnifying glass to check for errors like double letters or lines in the hair. The coin should also be in great condition—no scratches or wear.
If you think you have a rare coin, send it to a professional grading service. They can tell you the grade and real value.
Table of Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars
| Coin Type | Year | Mint Mark | Top Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kennedy Half Dollar | 1964 | D | $22,325 |
| Kennedy Half Dollar | 1970 | D | $15,000 |
| Kennedy Half Dollar | 1964 | None (Accented Hair) | $20,000 |
Start Looking Today
A Kennedy half dollar may look like a regular coin, but some are worth more than a bar of gold. Look for coins from 1964 or 1970. Check for rare errors and great condition.
You never know what you might find in an old jar or piggy bank. If you see something special, get it graded and sell it through a trusted dealer or auction. You could be holding a hidden treasure.
FAQs
What year Kennedy half dollars are valuable?
1964 and 1970 are key years.
Where is the mint mark on a Kennedy half dollar?
Near the eagle’s tail on the back.
How can I tell if my coin is rare?
Look for errors, silver content, and condition.
Are all 1964 Kennedy half dollars worth a lot?
No, only rare or high-grade ones.
Should I get my coin graded?
Yes, if it looks new or has an error.
