Have you ever looked at your old coins and wondered how valuable they could be? Sometimes the coins that look normal in our possession can prove to be priceless.
Recently, a 1964 John F. Kennedy half-dollar was auctioned for a record-breaking $156,000.
Hearing this news, curiosity has increased among coin collectors and common citizens. Can you also have such a rare coin?
In this article, we will give detailed information about the history, value, and features of this coin and how to identify it.
History of the 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar
The John F. Kennedy half-dollar coin was issued in 1964 and was made in memory of the 35th President of America, John F. Kennedy.
After Kennedy’s assassination on November 22, 1963, the US government discontinued the Franklin half-dollar and issued this new coin. It was designed by Gilroy Roberts, the chief engraver of the then US Mint.
The coin was made of 90% silver and 10% copper, which increased its historical and collectible importance. Later, due to rising silver prices, the amount of silver in it was reduced after 1965.
Best Features of the Coin Auctioned at $156,000
Not all 1964 Kennedy half-dollars might go for such high prices; however, a rare breed dubbed the Special Mint Set (SMS) version lends it extreme value.
What makes this coin so special?
- Special satin finish: It has a subdued shine when compared to other coins and a special satin-like surface.
- Deeper engraving: The details of the design are deeper and clearer than with other strikes.
- No contact marks: No regular coins have those heavy scratches or blemishes, while this does not show any such scratches.
- Very few in number: Only a handful of these coins exist in the world.
These characteristics made the price of this rare coin reach $156,000 at the Stack’s Bowers auction held in 2019.
How to determine if a 1964 Kennedy half-dollar is rare?
If you are in possession of this coin and wish to check, focus on the following attributes:
- Finish: If it is super smooth with a satin finish, it might be the SMS edition.
- Detailing: The lines of its design are very clean and raised.
- Scratches: This special edition should have no scratches, blemishes, or contact marks whatsoever.
- Weight and Content: It should weigh 12.5 grams and consist of 90 percent silver and 10 percent copper.
If your coin fits all of these characteristics, it would be wise to have it graded by a professional.
Is there any value for an ordinary Kennedy half-dollar of 1964?
If you don’t have the rare SMS edition, the 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar can still fetch a good price, as it is made of 90% silver.
Value Estimation
- Silver Value: It contains 0.3617 troy ounces of silver.
- Current Melt Value: As of 2024, its silver value may be $8.63.
- Unused Coins: If the coin is in good condition, it may be worth $12-$15.
- Proof Editions: Coins from special proof sets and higher grades may be more valuable.
Important tips for coin collectors
1. Identify the different versions of coins.
- General circulation coins: Collected only for the value of silver.
- Proof coins: Special collector editions, which have a higher value.
- SMS coins: Coins that are extremely rare and fetch high prices at auction.
2. Get the coin authenticated.
If you think your coin might be rare, contact the following institutions to get it authenticated:
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
3. Keep coins safe.
- Store coins in plastic holders or slabs.
- Avoid touching them with bare fingers.
- Keep coins in a cool and dry place.
4. Choose the right place to buy and sell coins.
If you want to sell or buy a 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar, the following platforms can help:
- Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers (auction houses)
- Certified coin dealers
- eBay, Great Collections (online marketplaces)
Key facts about the 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Coin | 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar |
| Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Notable Variant | Special Mint Set (SMS) with satin finish |
| Record Sale | $156,000 at Stack’s Bowers auction (2019) |
| Rarity | Only a few SMS coins are known to exist |
| Value of Regular 1964 Coins | $8.63 (melt value), up to $15 for uncirculated versions |
| Identification Tips | Satin finish, sharp details, absence of contact marks |
| Where to Sell | Coin dealers, auctions, online marketplaces |
Conclusion
1964 The Kennedy Half-Dollar is a historically significant and collectible coin. While common versions are collected just for the silver value, the rare SMS version can reach a six-digit auction price.
If you have this coin, identify it, take proper care of it, and get professional authentication. You may have a priceless treasure hidden inside!
FAQs
1. How do I know if my 1964 Kennedy half-dollar is valuable?
A. If it has a satin-like surface and sharp detailing without scratches, it may be rare. Take it to an expert for authentication.
2. How do I know if my 1964 Kennedy half-dollar is valuable?
A. If it has a satin-like surface and sharp detailing without scratches, it may be rare. Take it to an expert for authentication.
3. Where can I sell my rare 1964 Kennedy half-dollar?
A. Sell it at auction houses, certified coin sellers, or online platforms such as eBay and Heritage.
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