Posted by The Kennedy Half Dollar, introduced in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, has become a significant piece in American numismatics.
While many of these coins are common, certain rare editions have become highly valuable, fetching prices up to $150,000 at auctions.
This article explores six of the rarest Kennedy Half Dollar coins, providing insights on how to identify them and understand their worth.
1. 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half Dollar
This coin wasn’t officially released to the public and is believed to be a test strike or experimental issue. Only a handful are known to exist. The coin features an unusual satin finish and sharp design elements.
- Estimated Value: $150,000+
- Key Features: Satin-like texture, squared rims, no mint mark, brilliant strike
- Grading Target: SP68 or higher
2. 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
This version was part of the initial proof run before the design was modified. The more pronounced hair detail above Kennedy’s ear distinguishes it from standard proofs.
- Estimated Value: Up to $20,000 in ultra-high grade
- Key Features: Bold hair strands, missing serif on “I” in LIBERTY, no mint mark
- Grading Target: PR68 DCAM or better
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
This was the last year 40% silver was used in U.S. half dollars. It was only issued in limited numbers within special Mint Sets and never circulated. High-grade specimens are in serious demand.
- Estimated Value: $150,000
- Key Features: 40% silver composition, Denver “D” mint mark
- Grading Target: MS67 or above for top value
4. 1966 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half Dollar
Issued in Special Mint Sets during a time when traditional proofs were suspended. Coins with deep cameo contrasts and flawless surfaces are exceptionally scarce.
- Estimated Value: $31,200
- Key Features: No mint mark, satin finish, high strike quality
- Grading Target: SP68 DCAM with flawless surfaces
5. 1998-S Kennedy Half Dollar Matte Finish
Part of a low-mintage commemorative set, this matte-proof coin has a distinctive dull finish and was not issued for general circulation.
- Estimated Value: $100,000–$250,000
- Key Features: Matte texture, “S” mint mark, low mintage (~62,000)
- Grading Target: PR70 Matte
6. 1974-D Kennedy Half Dollar Doubled Die Obverse
A rare mint error, the doubled die obverse displays visible doubling in the inscriptions. Collectors pay a premium for high-grade examples of this hard-to-spot variety.
- Estimated Value: $250,000+
- Key Features: Doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY,” “D” mint mark
- Grading Target: MS65 or higher with strong doubling
Top 6 Rare Kennedy Half Dollars Worth Up to $150,000
| Year | Coin Type | Key Features | Estimated Value | Grade for Top Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | Special Mint Set (SMS) | Satin finish, no mint mark, sharp details | $150,000+ | SP68+ |
| 1964 | Accented Hair Proof | Pronounced hair above ear, missing serif on “I” in “LIBERTY” | Up to $20,000 | PR68 DCAM+ |
| 1970 | 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar | 40% silver composition, Denver mint mark | $150,000 | MS67+ |
| 1966 | Special Mint Set (SMS) | Satin finish, no mint mark, high strike quality | $31,200 | SP68 DCAM |
| 1998 | 1998-S Matte Finish | Matte texture, San Francisco mint mark, low mintage (~62,000) | $100,000–$250,000 | PR70 Matte |
| 1974 | 1974-D Doubled Die Obverse | Doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY”, Denver mint mark | $250,000+ | MS65+ |
The Kennedy Half-Dollar series offers exciting opportunities for collectors. While most coins in circulation are worth their face value, these rare variants are highly desirable and can fetch significant sums.
If you believe you own one of these coins, consider consulting a professional numismatist. Proper storage, grading, and identification are crucial steps to ensure your coin maintains or increases in value over time.
FAQs
What makes a Kennedy Half-Dollar valuable?
Value depends on rarity, condition, mint mark, composition, and specific design features. Coins with unique errors or those from Special Mint Sets tend to be more valuable.
How can I tell if I have a 1964 Accented Hair Kennedy Half-Dollar?
Check for pronounced hair strands above Kennedy’s ear and a weak or missing lower left serif on the “I” in “LIBERTY.” These are key features of the Accented Hair variety.
Are Special Mint Set coins different from proof coins?
Yes, SMS coins have a satin-like finish and are different from the highly reflective proof coins. They were produced during the mid-1960s when traditional proof sets were paused.