Since its 1964 debut, coin collectors have especially favored the Kennedy half-dollar. Although most of these coins are worth their face value, a few uncommon variations have sold for thousands of dollars—sometimes even six figures! Should you be fortunate enough to locate one of these rare half-dollars, you could be sitting on a little fortune. But how would you find out whether your Kennedy half-dollar is rare? Four very valuable Kennedy half-dollar coins will be discussed in this book together with their unique qualities and methods of identification.
1.1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar (Accented Hair) valued up to $150,000.
The 1964 Accented Hair variant is among the most in demand Kennedy half-dollars. Although this was the original design presented, concerns from Jacqueline Kennedy—who felt the hair detail was too strong—quickly modified it. There are thus just a few quantity of these coins available.
How to Spot It:
- Look at the hair over Kennedy’s ear; if it seems more defined and noticeable, you might have Accented Hair variation.
- On the left side of ” LIBERTY,” the letter “I” has a little, missing serif (foot).
Value is:
- Depending on its condition and grade, a well-preserved (uncirculated) 1964 Accented Hair Kennedy half-dollar will sell for $5,000 to $150,000.
2.1970: Kennedy, D. Half-dollar values up to $7,000.
Only available in special mint sets, the 1970-D Kennedy half-dollar is rare and never issued for general circulation. Consequently, extremely few of these coins are found outside collector sets.
How to Recognize It:
- Search for a 1970 date stamped “D,” on the opposite side behind the tail feathers of the eagle.
- Given their 40% silver content, these coins will have a somewhat different gloss than ordinary copper-nickel half-dollars.
Quality:
- A mint-condition 1970-D Kennedy half-dollar may run from $1,500 to $7,000.
3. Kennedy Half-Dollar — Worth Up to $10,000 1966 Special Mint Set (SMS)
Kennedy half-dollar from the 1966 Special Mint Set (SMS) is a rare variation with quite good quality strike. These coins were created especially for collectors; some have a rather reflective, proof-like quality.
How can one recognize it?
- Compared to standard 1966 Kennedy half-dollars, the coin features an especially keen and detailed strike.
- Strong contrast between raised and recessed sections gives the surface—which seems almost mirror-like—proof-like quality.
Worth:
Particularly if it features a “cameo,” or “deep cameo,” a good-quality 1966 SMS Kennedy half-dollar can be worth $3,000 to $10,000.
4. 1998 Kennedy Half-Dollar Matte Proof Value: Up to $4,000
Among rarest modern half-dollars is the 1998-S Matte Proof Kennedy half-dollar. It only appears in a special commemorative collection with a distinctive matte surface.
How can one identify it?
- Rather than the usual reflecting proof surface, the coin features a silky, satiny (matte) finish.
- On the obverse, behind Kennedy’s neckline, the “S” mint mark—for San Francisco—is quite obvious.
Value :
- Perfect condition a 1998-S Matte Proof Kennedy half-dollar will fetch $1,500 to $4,000.
How Would You Find Out Whether Your Kennedy Half-Dollar Is Worth Anything?
Here are some steps to verify the worth of any rare Kennedy half-dollar you believe you have:
- Review the details of the coin and search for distinctive characteristics including specific mint markings or Accented Hair design.
- Check the Date and Mint Mark; rare variants typically relate to particular years and mints.
- Consult a Magnifying Glass or Coin Appraisal Guide. Value can be much enhanced by small features.
- Older Kennedy half-dollars from 1964 are 90% silver; 1965–1970 versions are 40% silver. Weigh the coin. Often more valuable are coins with silver content.
- Get It Graded: Professional grading services such as PCGS or NGC can authenticate and value your coin.
Conclusion
Fascinating coins like the Kennedy half-dollar are found in certain rare forms valued in thousands of dollars. Identifying these unique coins can be a fun hobby whether your hair is 1964 Accented, 1970-D, 1966 SMS, 1998-S Matte Proof. Even if you believe you have a rare Kennedy half-dollar, it would be wise to have a specialist evaluate its actual worth. Kennedy half-dollars are a terrific addition to any collection even if one of these rare coins eludes your search. Begin sorting your coins right now; you never know what riches you could find!