The Kennedy Half Dollar is one of the most recognizable coins in U.S. history. First minted in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, this coin has become a favorite among collectors.
While most Kennedy Half Dollars are worth face value, some rare versions can fetch staggering amounts at auctions. Here are four Kennedy Half Dollar coins that could be worth as much as $150,000.
1. 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Estimated Value: Up to $150,000
The 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar is one of the rarest varieties of the series. It was one of the first designs issued before the U.S. Mint altered Kennedy’s hair detail after Jacqueline Kennedy requested a softer look.
The Accented Hair variety features more pronounced lines on Kennedy’s hair, making it distinguishable from regular proofs.
Key Features:
- First-year issue (1964)
- Accented Hair design with sharper details
- Only a small number of proofs were minted
- Highly sought after by collectors
Why It’s Valuable
Because the Mint quickly changed the design, the Accented Hair proof coins became rare. A high-quality specimen graded PR68 Deep Cameo has sold for over $150,000 at auction.
2. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
Estimated Value: Up to $50,000
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is one of the last 40% silver Kennedy halves ever produced. This coin was only available in special Mint Sets and was not released into circulation, making it a low-mintage and highly collectible coin.
Key Features:
- Denver Mint (D mint mark)
- One of the lowest-mintage Kennedy Half Dollars
- Contains 40% silver
- Only available in Mint Sets
Why It’s Valuable
Since these coins were never widely circulated, uncirculated versions in pristine condition can command prices of up to $50,000.
3. 1998-S Kennedy Half Dollar Matte Proof
Estimated Value: Up to $5,000
The 1998-S Matte Proof Kennedy Half Dollar was part of a special collector’s set issued by the U.S. Mint. Unlike standard proof coins, this one has a matte finish, which gives it a unique texture and appearance.
Key Features:
- Matte proof finish (distinct from standard proofs)
- San Francisco Mint (S mint mark)
- Special collector’s issue
- Limited mintage
Why It’s Valuable
This coin is rare due to its unique matte proof finish and low mintage. High-grade examples can sell for over $5,000.
4. 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
Estimated Value: Up to $100,000
The 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Kennedy Half Dollar is an ultra-rare variety with only a few known specimens. Unlike regular proof coins, SMS coins have a distinct satin-like finish with sharper details and stronger strikes.
Key Features:
- Special Mint Set finish (different from proof or regular strikes)
- No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint)
- Extremely low number known to exist
Why It’s Valuable
The extreme rarity of the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar makes it one of the most valuable in the series. High-grade examples have been auctioned for up to $100,000.
4 Valuable Kennedy Half Dollar Coins
| Coin | Estimated Value | Mint Mark | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar | $150,000 | None (Philadelphia) | Accented Hair design, fewer produced |
| 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar | $50,000 | D (Denver) | Last year of 40% silver coins, low mintage |
| 1998-S Kennedy Half Dollar Matte Proof | $5,000 | S (San Francisco) | Matte proof finish, rare collector’s piece |
| 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar | $100,000 | None (Philadelphia) | Special Strike, extremely rare |
Kennedy Half Dollars remain a beloved series among collectors, and certain rare varieties can be worth life-changing amounts. If you own any of these rare coins, it might be time to have them appraised—your change jar could be hiding a small fortune!
FAQs
How do I know if my Kennedy Half Dollar is valuable?
Check the date, mint mark, and overall condition. Rare varieties like the 1964 Accented Hair Proof, 1970-D, and 1964 SMS are worth significantly more. Having your coin graded by a professional service can help determine its value.
Are all 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars valuable?
Not all 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are valuable. Regular circulation coins are worth their silver content (around $10–$15), but rare versions like the Accented Hair Proof or SMS strike can be worth thousands.
Where can I sell my valuable Kennedy Half Dollar?
You can sell your rare Kennedy Half Dollar at coin auctions, online marketplaces, coin dealers, or coin shows. It’s best to get it graded before selling.
What is the most expensive Kennedy Half Dollar ever sold?
The most expensive Kennedy Half Dollar ever sold is a 1964 SMS coin, which fetched over $150,000 at auction.