The Kennedy Half Dollar was first struck in 1964. An important coin to the American numismatic hobbyist community, it offers not only intrinsic value, but carries a moments that resonates through history. The coin was released shortly after President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963 and became an homage to his legacy. Although millions of Kennedy Half Dollars were produced for circulation, there are some rare varieties of the coin that have sold for outrageous price points, some sales exceeding $150,000. This article will analyze why these coins are worth that much, ways to identify them, and why they are of particular interest to collectors.
The Origins of the 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar
After the assassination of President Kennedy on November 22, 1963, America mourned and began suggesting ways to honor his memory. Within weeks of the assassination, the U.S. Mint promptly designed and struck the Kennedy Half-Dollar for circulation, with the coin first minted in 1964. The obverse (front) of the coin, designed by Gilroy Roberts, features a left-facing portrait of Kennedy. The reverse (back) of the coin, designed by Frank Gasparro, shows the Presidential Seal.
Kennedy Half-Dollars were struck in 90% silver and 10% copper in 1964 and unlike the half-dollars minted in later years, this 90% silver Kennedy Half-Dollar can’t be duplicated. As the price of silver increased, the U.S. Mint reduced the silver content of later-minted Kennedy Half-Dollars, making this 90% silver coin already highly attractive to collectors due to its limited mintage and silver content.
Factors Influencing the Value of the 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar
The value of a 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar depends on multiple factors, including its condition, rarity, and historical significance.
Condition (Grade)
As with any collectible coin, the quality of a Kennedy Half-Dollar coin has a significant impact on its value. Pristine, uncirculated coins without a hint of wear will be graded as greater quality. Coins are usually graded on a Sheldon Scale from 1 to 70. Coins graded MS67 (Mint State 67) or higher are considered rare and value can be subjectively higher.
Rarity of Certain Varieties
Although the U.S. Mint manufactured millions of these coins, a few specific varieties are far less common than others. These varieties are often caused by the minting process, from special mint sets, or die variations.
Historical Significance
The Kennedy Half-Dollars, minted in 1964, are more than an item of change. They represent a moment in history. Produced just months after the assassination of John F. Kennedy, these half-dollars became a valuable remembrance for the American public as they mourned their lost leader. This emotional and historic significance increases the appeal of the coins to collectors.
Notable Sales and Records
Some infrequent 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollars realize staggering prices at auction. Notable examples include: Year Coin Grade Sale Price Auction House 2019 SP68 $156,000 Stack’s Bowers 2024 SMS $200,000 Heritage Auctions How to Tell If You Have a Rare and Valuable 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar
Collectors should be on the lookout for these particularly valuable varieties:
1. Special Mint Set (SMS) Coins
SMS coins from 1964 are very elusive. They have a distinctive satin finish, sharp strikes, and obvious die polishing lines. Only a few of these special pieces can be found in existence, making them some of the most desirable and collectible coins.
2. Accented Hair Proof Variety
The 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar’s early proof versions had a more detailed hair above Kennedy’s ear, eventually changed into the Accented Hair variety, which is rarer and worth more.
3. High-Grade Mint State Coins
Regular 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollars in MS67 grade or higher are rare. Coins with nice luster, detail and few marks are highly collectible and can sell for significant amounts of money.
Preservation and Grading Tips
If you own a 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar, proper storage and grading can help maintain or even enhance its value.
Storage Best Practices:
Store your coin in acid-free holders or protective capsules to prevent oxidation and wear. Keeping the coin in a controlled environment away from humidity and direct sunlight is also recommended.
Getting Your Coin Graded:
If you want to know the real value of your coin, consider sending it to an established grading company like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). A professional appraisal will yield accurate information about your coin’s grade and condition, as well as its potential rarity.
Conclusion: A Numismatic Gem
The 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar is one of the most iconic coins in American history. While most Kennedy Half-Dollars are not worth a great deal of money, there are a limited number of varieties that can be of substantial value if in good condition.
If you have one of these coins, it’s worth some time and effort to identify what attribute(s) your coin has, do some research to identify what other similar coins have sold for, and if you desire, consult with a numismatic professional. Whether you’re a serious collector or simply an interested bystander, the Kennedy Half-Dollar represents a unique combination of history, artistry, and investment potential. You may just have some hidden value.
FAQs
1. Why is the 1964 JFK Half-Dollar valuable?
The 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar is highly sought after due to its 90% silver content, limited mintage, and rare error varieties. Certain high-grade or special mint strike versions have sold for over $150,000 at auction.
2. What makes a 1964 JFK Half-Dollar worth $150,000?
Coins in Mint State (MS-68 or higher), those with rare minting errors, or Special Strike (SMS) versions are the ones that fetch the highest prices. These coins have exceptional luster, sharp details, and minimal wear.
3. How can I tell if my 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar is rare?
Look for proof-like surfaces, sharp strike details, and special features like a missing designer’s initials (FS-401 variety). Coins with strong luster and minimal marks are also more valuable. Having your coin graded by PCGS or NGC can confirm its rarity.
4. Where were 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollars minted?
They were minted at Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (D mint mark). Both versions are collectible, but some special varieties and high-grade specimens are more valuable.
5. Are all 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollars made of silver?
Yes, all 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollars are 90% silver, unlike later versions (1965-1970), which contain only 40% silver. This makes them desirable for both collectors and silver investors.