The Kennedy Half Dollar, which was introduced in 1964 after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, is now one of the most popular U.S. coins to be collected. Although most Kennedy halves are fairly ordinary and are seen in circulation, there are some very rare and valuable ones that have sold at auction for over $100,000.
If you’re a coin collector or even just have an old jar of coins sitting around the house, you may be shocked to hear that you may be holding one of these high-dollar rarities. Here are six of the most expensive Kennedy Half Dollars, along with information, identification hints, and their value on the market.
1. 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable:
This unique coin was never made available for public circulation and is thought to have been included in a trial strike. It has a satin-like finish and very sharp detail.
Auction Value: More than $150,000 in SP68 grade
How to Identify:
- Distinct satin-like finish
- Strong, sharp strike
- Square-edged rims
- No mint mark
2. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable:
Struck only in mint sets, the coin was not circulated, which means that high-grade examples are very scarce. It was also the final 40% silver Kennedy half produced.
Auction Value: As much as $150,000 in top condition
How to Identify:
- Denver “D” mint mark above the date
- 40% silver composition
- Only sold in uncirculated mint sets
3. 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable
This was one of the first 1964 proof strikes, soon halted because of design changes. There are not many, particularly in higher grades with cameo contrast.
Auction Value: Approximately $20,000 in PR68 Deep Cameo
How to Identify:
- More defined hair outline above Kennedy’s ear
- The lower-left serif on the “I” in LIBERTY looks weak or is absent.
- No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint)
4. 1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable:
This was produced during the years that no proof coins were minted. Special Mint Set (SMS) versions carry a special finish and premium quality production.
Auction Value: More than $30,000 for SP68 grade
How to Identify:
- No mint mark
- Satin-looking finish with deep strike details
- Finer quality than regular circulation coins
5. 1964 Proof Kennedy Half Dollar (PR70 Deep Cameo)
Why It’s Valuable:
Though numerous 1964 proofs were struck, it is incredibly rare to find one graded PR70 Deep Cameo condition.
Auction Value: Approximately $9,400
How to Identify:
- Deep mirror-like fields
- Frosted design elements
- No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint)
6. 1968-S Kennedy Half Dollar Proof
Why It’s Valuable:
Struck in San Francisco, the 1968-S proof is ordinary, but examples with perfect Deep Cameo contrast and spotless surfaces are exceedingly rare.
Auction Value: More than $21,000 in PR70 Deep Cameo
How to Identify
- “S” mint mark above date
- Deep mirror background and frosted raised design
Top Kennedy Half Dollars Worth Over $100,000
| Coin | Mint Mark | Key Feature | Grade | Approx. Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 SMS Half Dollar | No mint mark | Satin finish, rare strike | SP68 | $150,000+ |
| 1970-D Half Dollar | D | Not released in circulation | MS67+ | $150,000+ |
| 1964 Accented Hair Proof | No mint mark | Unique hair detail, early proof | PR68 DCAM | $20,000 |
| 1967 SMS Half Dollar | No mint mark | Special Mint Set issue | SP68 | $30,000+ |
| 1964 Proof Half Dollar | No mint mark | First-year proof, cameo contrast | PR70 DCAM | $9,400 |
| 1968-S Proof Half Dollar | S | Deep cameo in top condition | PR70 DCAM | $21,000+ |
Read More :- $1,200 IRS Financial Boost Arriving in April 2025 – Check If You’re Eligible!
The Kennedy Half Dollar is not just a relic of history it may be a buried treasure in your collection or piggy bank. From the extremely scarce 1964 SMS to the limited mintage 1970-D, these coins have sold for astronomical figures at auction.
If you suspect you’re carrying one of these jewels, it’s time to take a closer inspection. One coin can be worth more than $100,000 and that’s one piece of pocket change you won’t mind keeping.
FAQs:-
What makes the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar special?
It has a unique satin finish, very few were produced, and it is highly sought after by collectors.
Which Kennedy Half Dollars are worth over $100,000?
Some rare examples include the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar and the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar.
Where can I get my Kennedy Half Dollar graded?
Professional grading services like PCGS and NGC can authenticate and value your coin.
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