Coin collectors often dream of discovering rare coins hidden in everyday change or old collections. Among these collectible treasures, the Kennedy Half-Dollar holds a unique place. First introduced in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, this iconic coin remains popular with collectors. While most Kennedy Half-Dollars are only worth face value, a few rare editions are worth up to $156,000 at auctions, making them highly desirable.
In this guide, we’ll highlight four rare Kennedy Half-Dollar coins, explain what makes them valuable, how to identify them, and how to authenticate or sell them if you’re fortunate enough to find one.
4 Rare Kennedy Half-Dollar Coins Worth Big Money
| Coin Name | Year | Value Potential | Key Features | Composition | Where to Sell |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) | 1964 | Up to $156,000 | Satin finish, sharp details, no mint mark | 90% Silver | PCGS, NGC, Heritage Auctions, eBay |
| 1964 Accented Hair Proof | 1964 | Up to $20,000 | Accented hair above ear, weak “I” in LIBERTY | 90% Silver | PCGS, NGC, eBay, coin dealers |
| 1970-D Kennedy Half-Dollar | 1970 | Up to $150,000 | “D” mint mark, last 40% silver half-dollar | 40% Silver | Auctions, coin shows, trusted dealers |
| 1967 Special Mint Set (SMS) | 1967 | Up to $31,200 | Satin finish, deep cameo contrast | 40% Silver | PCGS, NGC, Heritage Auctions, eBay |
Why Are Some Kennedy Half-Dollars So Valuable?
While most Kennedy Half-Dollars are only worth their face value, rare versions are prized for their scarcity, minting errors, and unique designs. The following factors contribute to their high value:
- Limited Production – Coins produced in small quantities or with special minting processes are rare.
- Minting Errors – Flaws like double strikes, misalignment, or unique finishes increase a coin’s value.
- Precious Metal Content – Early Kennedy Half-Dollars contain 90% silver (1964) or 40% silver (1965-1970).
- Collector Demand – Enthusiasts seek rare variants, especially those with unique features or pristine condition.
The History of the Kennedy Half-Dollar
The Kennedy Half-Dollar was first minted in 1964, following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963. The coin was a tribute to the late president and quickly became a popular collector’s item.
- 1964: The first Kennedy Half-Dollars were made of 90% silver.
- 1965-1970: Due to rising silver prices, the silver content was reduced to 40%.
- 1971 and Later: The composition changed to a copper-nickel blend, making them less valuable intrinsically.
Although the coin is still in production today, only early editions and rare mint errors are considered highly valuable.
4 Kennedy Half-Dollars Worth a Fortune
1. 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half-Dollar – Worth Up to $156,000
This is one of the rarest Kennedy Half-Dollars, with only a few known to exist. It was never officially released to the public, making it an exceptional find.
Identifying Features:
- Satin-like finish with a smooth texture
- Sharp, well-defined design
- No mint mark
A 1964 SMS Kennedy Half-Dollar graded SP68 sold for $156,000 at auction. Authentication by PCGS or NGC is essential to confirm its value.
2. 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half-Dollar – Worth Up to $20,000
This version features a distinctive accented hair design above Kennedy’s ear, which was later modified at the request of Jacqueline Kennedy.
Identifying Features:
- More pronounced hair detail above the ear
- Weak or missing lower serif on the “I” in LIBERTY
A PF68 Deep Cameo example of this coin sold for $20,000. Proof sets from 1964 are worth checking for this rare variation.
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half-Dollar – Worth Up to $150,000
The 1970-D Kennedy Half-Dollar is the last to contain 40% silver and was only distributed in mint sets, making it rare.
Identifying Features:
- “D” mint mark above the date
- 40% silver, 60% copper composition
A 1970-D Kennedy Half-Dollar in MS67+ condition sold for $150,000 at auction.
4. 1967 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half-Dollar – Worth Up to $31,200
In 1967, the U.S. Mint issued Special Mint Sets instead of standard proof sets. Some of these feature a rare deep cameo finish.
Identifying Features:
- Satin finish with crisp details
- Deep cameo contrast with frosted designs and a mirrored background
A 1967 SMS Kennedy Half-Dollar with a deep cameo sold for $31,200. Look closely at your 1967 SMS sets for this rare characteristic.
How to Authenticate and Sell Valuable Kennedy Half-Dollars
If you think you have a valuable Kennedy Half-Dollar, follow these steps:
- Inspect Closely: Look for unique features such as mint marks, finishes, and minting errors.
- Professional Grading: Submit your coin to reputable services like PCGS or NGC for authentication.
- Choose the Right Marketplace: Sell your coin through trusted platforms like Heritage Auctions, eBay, or certified coin dealers.
Authentication ensures the highest market value and protects against counterfeit claims.
Conclusion
Kennedy Half-Dollars are more than just everyday currency—they can be valuable collector’s items. With certain rare editions fetching up to $156,000, checking your collection could reveal a hidden treasure.
Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just starting, learning how to identify and authenticate these rare coins can turn your hobby into a rewarding investment.
FAQs
What is the rarest Kennedy Half-Dollar?
The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half-Dollar is the rarest, with values reaching $156,000.
Are Kennedy Half-Dollars still made today?
Yes, but modern versions are primarily produced for collectors and lack precious metal content.
How do I know if my Kennedy Half-Dollar is valuable?
Check the date, mint mark, and unique features like satin finishes or accented hair.
Where can I sell a valuable Kennedy Half-Dollar?
Sell through PCGS, NGC, Heritage Auctions, or reputable online platforms like eBay.
Do all 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollars contain silver?
Yes, 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollars are 90% silver