Half dollar coins, often overlooked in daily transactions, can be treasure troves for astute collectors. Certain half dollars, due to their rarity, historical significance, or unique features, have values that far exceed their face value. Here’s a detailed look at nine such coins that might be lurking in your pocket change.
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
Overview: Introduced shortly after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, the 1964 Kennedy half dollar is notable for its 90% silver composition.
Key Features:
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper.
- Mintage: Over 273 million.
- Value: While common specimens are worth around $10, those in uncirculated condition or with unique features can fetch higher prices.
2. 1964 “Accented Hair” Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Overview: A special variety of the 1964 Kennedy half dollar, the “Accented Hair” proof features distinct hair details on Kennedy’s portrait.
Key Features:
- Identification: Sharper hairlines above Kennedy’s ear.
- Mintage: Approximately 100,000.
- Value: Proof coins in pristine condition can be valued between $100 and $500.
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
Overview: The 1970-D Kennedy half dollar was not released into general circulation, making it a sought-after piece for collectors.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: “D” for Denver.
- Mintage: Around 2.15 million.
- Value: Uncirculated examples can range from $20 to $50.
4. 1987 P&D Kennedy Half Dollars
Overview: In 1987, Kennedy half dollars were produced exclusively for mint sets, not for general circulation.
Key Features:
- Mint Marks: “P” for Philadelphia and “D” for Denver.
- Mintage: Approximately 2.89 million each.
- Value: Uncirculated coins can be worth between $2 and $5.
5. 1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar
Overview: This special matte finish coin was part of a two-coin set commemorating Robert F. Kennedy.
Key Features:
- Finish: Matte.
- Mintage: 62,000.
- Value: Values range from $100 to $200, depending on condition.
6. 2001-P Kennedy Half Dollar
Overview: The 2001-P Kennedy half dollar had a relatively low mintage compared to other years.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: “P” for Philadelphia.
- Mintage: 19.5 million.
- Value: Circulated coins are worth face value, but uncirculated examples can fetch $2 to $5.
7. 2002-2020 “NIFC” Kennedy Half Dollars
Overview: Coins minted during these years were “Not Intended for Circulation” (NIFC) and were available only through special means.
Key Features:
- Availability: Primarily through mint sets and rolls.
- Value: Uncirculated coins can be valued between $2 and $5 each.
8. 1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar with Missing “FG” Initials
Overview: Some 1966 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy half dollars are missing the designer’s initials “FG” on the reverse.
Key Features:
- Error: Missing “FG” initials near the eagle’s tail feathers.
- Value: Depending on condition, these error coins can range from $50 to $150.
9. 1974-D Kennedy Half Dollar Double Die Obverse
Overview: This error coin features a doubled image on the obverse side.
Key Features:
- Error: Doubling noticeable on the inscriptions and Kennedy’s profile.
- Value: Depending on the degree of doubling and condition, values can range from $50 to $100.
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 more than just currency; they are pieces of history that can hold significant value. By paying close attention to specific years, mint marks, and unique features, you might discover a valuable coin in your pocket change. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious novice, these half dollars offer a fascinating glimpse into numismatic treasures waiting to be found.
