Half dollar coins might not get much attention in everyday transactions, but some can be worth far more than their face value. Many collectors seek out specific half dollars because of their rarity, historical significance, or unique features. Here’s a look at nine such half dollars that could be hiding in your change.
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
Overview: Released after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, this coin is famous for its high silver content.
Key Features:
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Mintage: Over 273 million
- Value: While common ones are worth around $10, pristine or special coins can go for much more.
2. 1964 “Accented Hair” Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Overview: This version of the 1964 Kennedy half dollar has sharper hairlines, making it stand out from regular coins.
Key Features:
- Identification: Sharper hairlines near Kennedy’s ear
- Mintage: Around 100,000
- Value: Can range from $100 to $500, depending on condition.
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
Overview: This coin was not released to the public, making it highly sought after.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: “D” for Denver
- Mintage: 2.15 million
- Value: Uncirculated coins may sell for $20 to $50.
4. 1987 P&D Kennedy Half Dollars
Overview: These coins were only produced for mint sets and weren’t available for regular circulation.
Key Features:
- Mint Marks: “P” for Philadelphia, “D” for Denver
- Mintage: About 2.89 million each
- Value: Typically worth $2 to $5 when uncirculated.
5. 1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar
Overview: Part of a set commemorating Robert F. Kennedy, this half dollar features a special matte finish.
Key Features:
- Finish: Matte
- Mintage: 62,000
- Value: Can range from $100 to $200.
6. 2001-P Kennedy Half Dollar
Overview: This coin has a lower mintage compared to others from the early 2000s.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: “P” for Philadelphia
- Mintage: 19.5 million
- Value: Uncirculated coins could be worth $2 to $5.
7. 2002-2020 “NIFC” Kennedy Half Dollars
Overview: These coins were minted only for collectors and not for regular circulation.
Key Features:
- Availability: Available through special mint sets
- Value: Typically valued between $2 and $5 for uncirculated versions.
8. 1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar with Missing “FG” Initials
Overview: Some 1966 Special Mint Set coins are missing the “FG” initials on the reverse side, which makes them rare.
Key Features:
- Error: Missing initials near the eagle’s tail
- Value: Can be worth anywhere from $50 to $150.
9. 1974-D Kennedy Half Dollar Double Die Obverse
Overview: This error coin features doubling on the obverse, making it an exciting find for collectors.
Key Features:
- Error: Doubling of inscriptions and Kennedy’s profile
- Value: Can range from $50 to $100, depending on the degree of the error.
Summary of Valuable Half Dollar Coins
| Year | Coin Type | Key Feature | Mintage (Approx.) | Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | Kennedy Half Dollar | 90% Silver Composition | 273 million | $10+ |
| 1964 | “Accented Hair” Proof Kennedy Half Dollar | 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 |
Half dollar coins are not just pieces of currency; they are fascinating collectibles that can hold significant value.
By knowing which years, mint marks, and special features to look for, you could be holding a rare gem without even knowing it.
Whether you’re an experienced collector or just starting out, these half dollars are definitely worth keeping an eye out for.
1. Why are some half dollar coins worth more than others?
Certain half dollar coins are worth more because they are rare, have unique features, or were made with precious metals like silver. Coins from certain years or with minting errors can also be more valuable to collectors.
2. What is the value of a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar?
A standard 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is worth around $10, but if it is in uncirculated condition or has unique features, its value could be higher.
3. How can I tell if my Kennedy Half Dollar is the “Accented Hair” variety?
Look closely at the hair above President Kennedy’s ear. If you see sharp, detailed hairlines, you might have the rare “Accented Hair” variety, which can be worth $100 to $500 in pristine condition.
4. What is an NIFC Kennedy Half Dollar?
NIFC stands for “Not Intended for Circulation.” These coins were made only for collectors and were not used in everyday transactions. They typically have a higher value when uncirculated.
5. How do I know if my half dollar is an error coin?
Error coins may have unusual features like missing initials, double images, or minting mistakes. For example, some 1966 Kennedy Half Dollars are worth more because they are missing the “FG” initials.
