The Kennedy Half Dollar Worth is a favorite among collectors, but did you know that some rare versions are worth up to $150,000? Since its release in 1964, this coin has become a historical and collectible treasure. While millions of Kennedy Half-Dollars were minted, only a few rare ones stand out for their scarcity and high auction prices.
In this guide, you’ll discover four of the rarest Kennedy Half-Dollars, learn how to identify them, and find out why they are so valuable. If you’re a collector, investor, or just someone who enjoys coin hunting, this article will help you spot valuable coins in your collection and understand their potential investment value.
4 Rare Kennedy Half-Dollar Coins Worth Up to $150,000
Although Kennedy Half-Dollars are common, some rare editions can fetch incredible prices at auctions. Below is a quick breakdown of four of the most valuable ones:
| Coin Type | Year | Notable Feature | Auction Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) | 1964 | Satin finish | $156,000 |
| 1964 Accented Hair Proof | 1964 | Distinctive hair design | $20,000 |
| 1970-D Kennedy Half-Dollar | 1970 | Limited mintage | $150,000 |
| 1967 Special Mint Set (SMS) | 1967 | Unique finish | $31,200 |
1. 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half-Dollar
The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half-Dollar is one of the rarest versions. It features a unique satin-like finish, making it different from regular proof coins. Only a handful of these coins exist, making them incredibly valuable.
Why It’s Valuable
- Extremely rare, with only a few known examples.
- Has a satin-like finish and sharp design details.
- Auction Record: Sold for $156,000 in 2019 (graded SP68).
How to Identify It
- Finish: Satin-like, smoother than regular proof coins.
- Details: Sharper design, especially around Kennedy’s profile.
- Mint Mark: No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint).
2. 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half-Dollar
This rare proof coin features a distinctive hair design above Kennedy’s ear. It was one of the first designs, but Jacqueline Kennedy requested changes, making the original design rare.
Why It’s Valuable
- Early production variation, making it a collector’s favorite.
- Only 1-3% of 1964 proof coins have this design.
- Auction Record: Up to $20,000 in top condition.
How to Identify It
- Hair Detail: More pronounced hair strands above Kennedy’s ear.
- Lettering: The “I” in “LIBERTY” has a weak or missing lower left serif.
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half-Dollar
The 1970-D Kennedy Half-Dollar is one of the rarest regular-issue half-dollars. The U.S. Mint reduced production, making this coin difficult to find in circulation.
Why It’s Valuable
- Low mintage—only 2.15 million produced.
- Last 40% silver Kennedy Half-Dollar before switching to copper-nickel.
- Auction Record: Sold for $150,000 in 2023 (MS67 grade).
How to Identify It
- Mint Mark: Small “D” above the date (Denver Mint).
- Composition: Contains 40% silver, unlike later copper-nickel versions.
4. 1967 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half-Dollar
The 1967 SMS Kennedy Half-Dollar was issued due to a coin shortage, replacing traditional proof sets. These coins have a unique finish and are highly sought after.
Why It’s Valuable
- Limited production with a distinctive satin finish.
- Auction Record: A pristine example sold for $31,200.
How to Identify It
- Finish: Satin-like, similar to the 1964 SMS version.
- Details: Sharper design with deep cameo contrast.
How to Determine If Your Kennedy Half-Dollar Is Valuable
1. Check the Date
Some of the most valuable Kennedy Half-Dollars were minted in 1964, 1967, and 1970. If your coin matches these years, it might be worth further inspection.
2. Look for Mint Marks
- D = Denver Mint
- S = San Francisco Mint
- No Mint Mark = Philadelphia Mint
3. Examine the Condition
Coins are graded on a 1-70 scale:
- MS (Mint State) 60-70 – Uncirculated, highest value.
- AU (About Uncirculated) 50-59 – Minor wear, still valuable.
- XF (Extremely Fine) 40-49 – Noticeable wear but good details.
4. Seek Professional Authentication
To accurately determine your coin’s value, get it graded by experts like:
- Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS)
- Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC)
Are Kennedy Half-Dollars a Good Investment?
Pros of Investing in Kennedy Half-Dollars
- High demand among collectors.
- Silver content—pre-1971 coins contain 40% silver or more.
- Limited editions appreciate in value over time.
Cons of Investing
- Market fluctuations—silver prices impact value.
- Requires authentication for the best returns.
FAQ’S
1. What is the rarest Kennedy Half-Dollar?
The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half-Dollar is considered the rarest, with only a few dozen known examples.
2. How much is a regular 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar worth?
A circulated 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar is worth $11.50 to $12.25, while an uncirculated version can fetch up to $5,200.
3. Where can I sell my Kennedy Half-Dollar?
You can sell Kennedy Half-Dollars at:
Coin dealers
Online marketplaces (eBay, Heritage Auctions)
Local coin shows
4. Are there any error Kennedy Half-Dollars worth money?
Yes! Look for the 1974-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) and the 1966 No FG (Missing Designer Initials) errors.
| USA NEWS | CLICK HERE |
| AUSTRALIA NEWS | CLICK HERE |