Half dollar coins have been a staple of U.S. currency since the late 18th century. While many circulate with a value of just 50 cents, certain half dollars are worth significantly more due to their rarity, historical significance, or unique features.
Below is a detailed exploration of the 10 most valuable half dollar coins you might find hiding in your pocket change.
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Special Strike
In 1964, to honor President John F. Kennedy, the U.S. Mint released the Kennedy half dollar. Among these, the 1964 Special Strike stands out due to its unique satin finish and sharp design details.
Only about a dozen of these coins have been certified, making them exceptionally rare. One such coin, graded SP68, fetched $156,000 at auction.
2. 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Early proofs of the 1964 Kennedy half dollar featured extra hair above Kennedy’s ear, known as the “Accented Hair” variety.
This design was soon altered, making these coins rare. A deep cameo example graded PF68 was sold for $19,975.
3. 1968-S Kennedy Half Dollar Proof
The 1968-S proof marked the return of proof coinage, produced in San Francisco. While many proofs exist, those with a deep cameo finish are scarce. A PF70 deep cameo example sold for $21,600 in 2017.
4. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1970-D Kennedy half dollar was not released into general circulation but was included in mint sets, resulting in a lower mintage. High-grade uncirculated coins can be worth around $8.
5. 1967 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half Dollar
Between 1965 and 1967, the U.S. Mint produced Special Mint Sets instead of regular proofs. The 1967 SMS Kennedy half dollar, especially those with an “Ultra Deep Cameo” finish and graded MS68, can fetch up to $7,000.
6. 1966 SMS No FG Kennedy Half Dollar
Some 1966 Special Mint Set Kennedy half dollars are missing the designer’s initials “FG” on the reverse, due to overpolished dies. These error coins are rare and can be quite valuable.
7. 1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar
Issued as part of the “Kennedy Collectors Set,” the 1998-S matte finish half dollar had a limited mintage of around 62,000, making it the lowest mintage in the series. These coins are sought after by collectors.
8. 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar
To commemorate the U.S. Bicentennial, the 1976-S silver-clad half dollar was issued. In pristine condition, these coins can be worth more than their face value, especially in proof or uncirculated grades.
9. 1965-1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollars with Cameo Finish
Special Mint Sets from 1965 to 1967 often lack the cameo contrast seen in other proofs. However, those with a strong cameo or deep cameo finish are rare and can command higher prices.
10. 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar
While many 1964-D Kennedy half dollars were minted, coins in exceptional condition, especially those with unique toning or errors, can be worth more than their silver content.
| Year | Mint Mark | Variety/Feature | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | None | Special Strike | $156,000 |
| 1964 | None | Accented Hair Proof | $19,975 |
| 1968 | S | Proof Deep Cameo | $21,600 |
| 1970 | D | Uncirculated | $8 |
| 1967 | None | SMS Ultra Deep Cameo | $7,000 |
| 1966 | None | SMS No FG Error | Varies |
| 1998 | S | Matte Finish | Varies |
| 1976 | S | Silver Bicentennial | Varies |
| 1965-1967 | None | SMS Cameo Finish | Varies |
| 1964 | D | High-Grade/Errors | Varies |
While many half dollar coins in circulation are worth their face value, certain coins possess unique characteristics that make them highly valuable to collectors.
Regularly checking your pocket change could lead to the discovery of one of these hidden treasures.
FAQs
How can I identify a valuable half dollar coin?
Look for coins with low mintages, unique features like the “Accented Hair,” or errors such as missing initials. Coins in exceptional condition or with special finishes are also more valuable.
Are all Kennedy half dollars valuable?
Not all. While many are worth their face value, specific years, mint marks, and conditions can significantly increase their value.
Where can I sell my valuable half dollar coins?
Reputable coin dealers, auctions, and online platforms specializing in numismatics are good places to sell rare coins.