4 Rare Kennedy Half-Dollar Coins Worth Up to $150,000 : Of all the coins in the United States, the Kennedy Half-Dollar is arguably one of the most popular and most collected coins. Minted to honor the late President John F. Kennedy after his assassination, the Kennedy Half Dollar issue of 1964 has since become synonymous with numismatics. Whereas most Kennedy Half-Dollars are worth only face value or slightly reminiscence, some editions are rare enough and valuable enough to fetch as much as $150,000 or more at an auction. Here are four rare Kennedy Half-Dollars that every coin enthusiast should know.
1964 SMS Kennedy Half-Dollar
This coin also stands out as one of the rarest and most prized editions of the legendary Kennedy Half-Dollar. As opposed to normal circulation strikes, it has a satin finish, sharper detail, and a unique luster that sets it apart. Experts believe that no more than 12 to 15 pieces of these coins exist, establishing an incredible scarcity that makes it one of the most sought-after pieces in the world of coin collecting.
Why Is It Valuable?
- Only a few were made, and where they came from is yet an enigma.
- This coin appears excruciatingly shiny and very sharply detailed, especially compared with ordinary 1964 half dollars.
- It has never been issued for public circulation.
Value: The price of a 1964 SMS Kennedy Half-Dollar can range from $47,000 to $150,000, depending on the condition and grading .A specimen in MS-67 condition was auctioned for over $156,000.
1970-D Kennedy Half-Dollar
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is another very rare came aside from the silver previously included in half-dollar coins for circulation because it was struck in 1970, the last year that silver was in common use for half-dollar coins. Produced primarily for collector sets by the Denver Mint, these coins were not widely released into everyday transactions, making them a sought-after rarity among numismatists.
Why Is It Valuable?
- It was the final circulation half-dollar to contain 40% silver.
- Very few were minted compared to other years, with a mintage of only 2.15 million.
- It was mainly distributed in uncirculated mint sets, meaning finding one in circulation is extremely rare.
Value: A well-preserved 1970-D Kennedy Half-Dollar can be worth between $50 to $3,000, while exceptionally high-grade specimens have been known to sell for up to $10,000.
1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half-Dollar
When the Kennedy Half-Dollar was first introduced in 1964, the Mint produced a limited number of proof coins featuring an “Accented Hair” design. This design, which showed more detail in Kennedy’s hair, was quickly modified because Jacqueline Kennedy reportedly disliked it.
Why Is It Valuable?
- It was an early design that was later altered, making it a collector’s favorite.
- The Accented Hair variety is easy to identify by the stronger hair details and a broken lower left serif on the letter “I” in “LIBERTY.”
- It was minted only in proof sets, limiting the number available.
Value: A standard proof Accented Hair 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar can range from $100 to $5,000, but those in perfect PR-69 condition have fetched over $20,000 at auction.
1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half-Dollar
The 1998-S Kennedy Half-Dollar was specially minted as a part of a two-coin set along with the Robert F. Kennedy Commemorative Silver Dollar. This coin has a unique matte finish, unlike other standard proof coins of the era.
Why Is It Valuable?
- It was only included in a special collector’s set, limiting the number available to just 62,000 coins.
- The matte finish gives it a distinct look compared to other proof coins.
- Collectors seek out this specific variation due to its rarity and unique production process.
Value: The 1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half-Dollar typically sells for $100 to $300, but perfect-grade specimens have sold for over $1,000.
How to Identify Rare Kennedy Half-Dollars
- If you suspect you have a valuable Kennedy Half-Dollar, here are a few steps to verify its rarity:
- Check the Date and Mintmark: Some of the most valuable Kennedy Half-Dollars have unique dates and mint marks (such as “D” for Denver or “S” for San Francisco).
- Examine the Design Features: Coins like the 1964 Accented Hair variety have specific design differences that set them apart.
- Assess the Condition: The coin’s condition significantly impacts its value. Coins graded MS-67 or higher tend to fetch higher prices.
- Look for Special Mint Finishes: Coins like the 1964 SMS and 1998-S Matte Finish have distinct appearances that make them more valuable.
- Get Professional Appraisal: If you believe you have a rare Kennedy Half-Dollar, consider sending it to a professional coin grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Conclusion
Kennedy Half-Dollars remain highly sought after among collectors due to their historical importance and the variety of rare editions available. While the majority of these coins hold only face value, certain rare specimens—such as the 1964 SMS, 1970-D, 1964 Accented Hair Proof, and 1998-S Matte Finish—can command prices in the thousands, with some even reaching up to $150,000 at auctions. If you happen upon one of these elusive coins, having it appraised could reveal that you’re holding a true numismatic treasure!
FAQs
Q.1 Why are some Kennedy Half-Dollars worth so much money?
A. Certain Kennedy Half-Dollars are valuable due to their rarity, unique minting errors, limited production, or special finishes. Collectors highly seek these coins, driving their prices up significantly.
Q.2 How can I tell if my Kennedy Half-Dollar is rare?
A. Check the coin’s date, mintmark, and special design features. Rare varieties include the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half-Dollar, 1970-D Half-Dollar, 1964 Accented Hair Proof, and 1998-S Matte Finish. A professional grading service can also confirm its authenticity and rarity.
Q.3What is the most valuable Kennedy Half-Dollar?
A. The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half-Dollar is one of the rarest and most valuable, with only about 12–15 known specimens. In top condition, it has sold for over $150,000 at auction.
Q.4 Where can I sell a rare Kennedy Half-Dollar?
A. You can sell rare Kennedy Half-Dollars through coin dealers, online marketplaces (like eBay or Heritage Auctions), or at numismatic auctions. A professional appraisal can help determine the best selling price.
Q.5 Is a 1970-D Kennedy Half-Dollar rare?
A. Yes, the 1970-D Kennedy Half-Dollar is rare because it was the last year silver was used in half-dollars for circulation. It was only available in mint sets, making it difficult to find in everyday transactions.