Half dollar coins, often overlooked in everyday transactions, can actually be hidden treasures for collectors. Many of these coins are worth much more than their face value due to their rarity, historical significance, or unique characteristics. Here’s a look at nine notable half dollars that might already be sitting in your collection.
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
Released shortly after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, the 1964 Kennedy half dollar is iconic, with its 90% silver composition.
Key Features:
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Mintage: Over 273 million
- Value: Common examples are worth around $10, but uncirculated or special varieties can fetch much higher prices.
2. 1964 “Accented Hair” Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
This special variation of the 1964 Kennedy half dollar features sharp hairlines above Kennedy’s ear, making it a highly sought-after coin for collectors.
Key Features:
- Distinctive Feature: Sharp hairlines above the ear
- Mintage: Around 100,000
- Value: Proof coins in excellent condition can be valued between $100 and $500.
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1970-D Kennedy half dollar was never issued for general circulation, making it rare and appealing to collectors.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: “D” for Denver
- Mintage: Approximately 2.15 million
- Value: Uncirculated coins range from $20 to $50.
4. 1987 P&D Kennedy Half Dollars
Produced only for mint sets in 1987, Kennedy half dollars from this year are scarce in circulation.
Key Features:
- Mint Marks: “P” for Philadelphia and “D” for Denver
- Mintage: Around 2.89 million for each mint mark
- Value: These coins are typically worth $2 to $5 in uncirculated condition.
5. 1939-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar
A must-have for serious collectors, the 1939-S Walking Liberty half dollar is highly prized due to its limited mintage.
Key Features:
- Mint Marks: “S” for San Francisco
- Mintage: About 2.89 million
- Value: Uncirculated examples can range from $2 to $5.
6. 1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar
Part of a special two-coin set to commemorate Robert F. Kennedy, this coin features a unique matte finish.
Key Features:
- Finish: Matte
- Mintage: 62,000
- Value: Usually valued between $100 and $200, depending on condition.
7. 2001-P Kennedy Half Dollar
With a relatively low mintage, the 2001-P Kennedy half dollar stands out as a valuable coin for collectors.
Key Features:
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- Mint Mark: “P” for Philadelphia
- Mintage: 19.5 million
- Value: Coins in uncirculated condition are worth $2 to $5.
8. 2002-2020 “NIFC” Kennedy Half Dollars
Coins from this period were “Not Intended for Circulation” (NIFC), and were only available through mint sets or rolls, making them rare.
Key Features:
- Availability: Limited to special mint distributions
- Value: Uncirculated examples generally fetch $2 to $5.
9. 1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar with Missing “FG” Initials
An error coin, the 1966 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy half dollar is notable for missing the designer’s initials (“FG”) on the reverse.
Key Features:
- Error: Missing “FG” initials near the eagle’s tail feathers
- Value: Error coins can be worth anywhere from $50 to $150.
10. 1974-D Kennedy Half Dollar Double Die Obverse
This error coin features noticeable doubling on the obverse, making it a standout in any collection.
Key Features:
- Error: Doubling on inscriptions and Kennedy’s profile
- Value: Depending on condition, these coins can be valued between $50 and $100.
Value Overview
| Year | Coin Type | Key Feature | Mintage | Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | Kennedy Half Dollar | 90% Silver Composition | 273 million | $10+ |
| 1964 | “Accented Hair” Proof Kennedy | Distinct Hair Details | 100,000 | $100 – $500 |
| 1970-D | Kennedy Half Dollar | Not Released for Circulation | 2.15 million | $20 – $50 |
| 1987 P&D | Kennedy Half Dollars | Mint Set Only | 2.89 million each | $2 – $5 |
| 1998-S | Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar | Special Matte Finish | 62,000 | $100 – $200 |
| 2001-P | Kennedy Half Dollar | Low Mintage | 19.5 million | $2 – $5 |
| 2002-2020 | “NIFC” Kennedy Half Dollars | Not Intended for Circulation | Varies | $2 – $5 |
| 1966 | SMS Kennedy Half Dollar | Missing “FG” Initials | Varies | $50 – $150 |
| 1974-D | Kennedy Half Dollar | Double Die Obverse | Varies | $50 – $100 |
Conclusion
Half dollar coins are more than just everyday currency; they carry historical significance and offer fascinating stories behind their creation. By paying attention to details like mint marks, errors, or unique finishes, you might uncover valuable coins hiding right in front of you. Not only do these coins have monetary worth, but they also provide a glimpse into American history.
FAQs
What makes the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar valuable? Its 90% silver composition and historical significance make it a collector’s item.
How can I identify the 1964 Accented Hair Proof Half Dollar? Look for the distinct hairlines above Kennedy’s ear, a key feature of this variety.
Why is the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar rare? It was never released for general circulation, making it a rare find among collectors.
What is unique about the 1966 SMS Missing FG Half Dollar? The coin is missing the designer’s initials, “FG,” on the reverse, creating an error coin with added value.
Are 2002-2020 Kennedy Half Dollars valuable? Yes, uncirculated examples from these years can be worth between $2 and $5.