That Kennedy Half Dollar in your pocket or coin jar might be worth more than 50 cents
You might be holding more than just spare change. Some rare Kennedy Half Dollars still in circulation today have sold for up to $5.9 million at auctions. Known for their memorable tribute to President John F. Kennedy, these coins are a top pick among collectors. Discovering one could turn your casual pocket change into a fortune. Here’s how you can recognize these rare finds and what steps to take if you uncover one.
What Makes Kennedy Half Dollars Special?
The Kennedy Half Dollar made its debut in 1964 as a tribute to President Kennedy after his assassination. The coins issued that year were made from 90% silver, giving them considerable metal value.
However, the real treasure lies in rare minting mistakes or specific editions like the 1964-D. Coins that are in excellent condition or were produced in limited numbers are especially desirable, making them highly sought-after by serious collectors.
Why Are Some Worth Millions?
The price of a Kennedy Half Dollar depends heavily on its mint year, condition, and the presence of rare minting anomalies. For instance, a 1964-D coin with a doubled die obverse—where the design appears to be doubled—once fetched $5.9 million due to its extreme rarity.
Other valuable examples include coins with unusual mint marks or limited production numbers. Pristine coins, known as being in “mint state,” are especially prized when combined with such distinctive features.
Feature What to Look For
When checking your Kennedy Half Dollars, focus on several key features. Year: The 1964 version, especially the 1964-D, is very desirable. Mint Mark: A small “D” indicates Denver, while no mark means Philadelphia. Material: Only 1964 coins were made with 90% silver.
Condition: The coin should be free of scratches, tarnish, or signs of wear. All these traits can dramatically affect the coin’s market value if they align just right.
How to Spot a Valuable Coin
Take a close look at any Kennedy Half Dollars you have. The year 1964 is particularly important. Look for the mint mark, which will be either a small “D” or no mark at all, located near the bottom of the coin. Use a magnifying glass to examine the coin for signs of doubling or misprints in the design.
A valuable coin should have sharp, clean details and look close to untouched. Compare it with reliable online resources like NGC Coin Explorer for confirmation.
What to Do If You Find One
If you believe you’ve found a rare Kennedy Half Dollar, avoid cleaning it—cleaning can damage its surface and reduce its value. Take clear photos of both sides and do some research using collector websites or forums.
If the coin seems promising, consider reaching out to a professional appraiser or well-known auction house such as Stack’s Bowers. To preserve its quality, keep the coin in a soft cloth or plastic holder while assessing its true value.
Time to Hunt for Treasure
You don’t need to go far to find one of these valuable coins—they’re still out there. Whether it’s change from a store, an old piggy bank, or your wallet, Kennedy Half Dollars are in circulation. With a few worth millions, it’s worth your time to check.
That plain-looking 50-cent coin could turn out to be a once-in-a-lifetime discovery waiting to happen. Start looking today—you never know what you might find.
Last Thought
A rare Kennedy Half Dollar could be sitting unnoticed in your home, holding extraordinary value. Knowing what to look for and how to treat it properly might just turn your pocket change into life-changing money. Stay curious and keep your eyes open—you might stumble upon history and a small fortune all at once.
FAQs
Q1: Are Kennedy Half Dollars still made today?
Yes, they are still minted, but mostly for collectors rather than general circulation.
Q2: How can I tell if my Kennedy Half Dollar is silver?
Check the year—only 1964 coins are 90% silver. From 1965–1970, they contain 40% silver.
Q3: Where is the mint mark on a Kennedy Half Dollar?
The mint mark is located just below Kennedy’s neck, near the bottom rim on the obverse side.
Q4: Can I sell my coin without grading it?
Yes, but professional grading can help prove authenticity and boost its value.
Patricia is a dedicated finance content writer specializing in personal finance, budgeting, investing, and financial planning. With a passion for making money matters easy to understand, she crafts well-researched, reader-friendly content that helps individuals take control of their financial future.