If you’ve got a Kennedy Half Dollar tucked away in a drawer or sitting in your pocket change, now might be the time to take a closer look. While these coins are still commonly seen in circulation, certain rare versions of the Kennedy Half Dollar have fetched astonishing sums, with some reaching over $600,000 at auction. And yes — some of these high-value coins are still out there, unnoticed by everyday holders.
Here’s what you need to know to spot the valuable ones and why some of these half dollars are worth a small fortune.
What Makes the Kennedy Half Dollar So Special?
The Kennedy Half Dollar was first minted in 1964, just months after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. As a tribute, the U.S. Mint quickly moved to create a coin bearing his likeness, and Americans responded with admiration and demand.
The earliest issues of the coin — especially those from 1964 — were struck in 90% silver, making them not only sentimental but also intrinsically valuable due to their metal content.
The Key Years That Could Be Worth Thousands
While many Kennedy Half Dollars are only worth their face value or slightly more for collectors, certain mint years and errors can skyrocket the value.
1964 Accented Hair Variety
One of the most sought-after is the 1964 “Accented Hair” proof variety. It features a distinct hair pattern above Kennedy’s ear and was only minted for a short time before the design was modified. These can sell for tens of thousands, depending on condition and certification.
1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Half Dollar
Even rarer is the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar. Only a few dozen are known to exist, and these are believed to be experimental pieces. In 2019, one sold at auction for over $100,000. Some experts believe these could push $600,000 or more in near-perfect condition.
Error Coins and Double Dies
Coins with minting errors, such as double die obverses, off-center strikes, or planchet errors, can fetch huge sums. A well-documented 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar struck on a silver planchet instead of a clad one sold for over $47,000.
How to Check If Your Kennedy Half Dollar Is Valuable
Not every Kennedy Half Dollar is a jackpot, but here’s a quick checklist to narrow down the valuable ones:
- Check the Year: 1964, 1966, 1970-D, and any coins before 1971 have higher silver content.
- Look for Proof or SMS Designation: Especially for 1964 coins with “Accented Hair.”
- Inspect for Errors: Use a magnifier to spot doubling or mint flaws.
- Weigh the Coin: Silver versions weigh slightly more (around 12.5 grams) than modern clad coins.
- Check Mint Marks: Look for “D” (Denver), “S” (San Francisco), or no mint mark, and cross-reference with known valuable varieties.
Still Circulating — But Rare
What makes the Kennedy Half Dollar story even more intriguing is that some of these rare and valuable coins are still in circulation. Many people have no idea what they’re holding. Estate sales, old collections, and even bank rolls have revealed coins worth hundreds of thousands.
In fact, numismatic experts believe several of the ultra-rare 1964 SMS coins may still be out there — ungraded, unrecognized, and potentially sitting in someone’s spare change jar.
Should You Get It Appraised?
If you believe your Kennedy Half Dollar might be something special, it’s wise to:
- Consult a reputable coin dealer
- Use services like PCGS or NGC for professional grading
- Avoid cleaning the coin — it can reduce value
Even a well-worn Kennedy Half Dollar from the right year could still be worth hundreds — or much more — if it’s a rare variety or error type.
Also Read:- Don’t Spend That 2013 $100 Bill — Here’s How to Spot the Rare High-Value Versions
Final Thoughts
So before you spend that half dollar at the store or pass it along as change, take a moment to examine it. It could be more than just pocket change — it might be a hidden gem worth six figures or more.
Collectors and treasure hunters alike continue to search for these hidden rarities. And with some still floating around in circulation, you never know — your next lucky find could be sitting right in your coin jar.
