The Kennedy Half Dollar, first introduced in 1964 as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy, remains one of the most sought-after U.S. coins by collectors and numismatists alike. While millions of these coins have been minted over the years, some rare varieties are worth over $800,000 at auction.
If you have a collection of Kennedy Half Dollars or even a few stored away, you might be sitting on a high-value rarity. Let’s explore the most valuable Kennedy Half Dollars and how you can identify them.
1. 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable:
This coin was never officially released for circulation. Instead, it was part of a test strike, making it one of the rarest Kennedy Half Dollars ever produced. It features a satin-like finish and sharp details, distinguishing it from standard issues.
Auction Value: Over $150,000 for an SP68 grade
How to Identify:
- Unique satin finish
- Sharp, well-defined strike
- Square-edged rims
- No mint mark
2. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable:
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar was only issued in mint sets and never released into general circulation. As a result, high-grade examples are exceptionally rare. This was also the last 40% silver Kennedy Half Dollar ever produced.
Auction Value: Up to $150,000 in top condition
How to Identify:
- Denver “D” mint mark above the date
- 40% silver composition
- Found only in uncirculated mint sets
3. 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable:
This was part of the earliest 1964 proof strikes, featuring a slightly different design. It was quickly modified, making surviving examples rare especially in Deep Cameo (DCAM) proof condition.
Auction Value: Around $20,000 in PR68 DCAM
How to Identify:
- More pronounced hair details above Kennedy’s ear
- The lower-left serif on the “I” in LIBERTY appears weak or missing
- No mint mark (struck in Philadelphia)
4. 1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable:
Between 1965 and 1967, the U.S. Mint did not produce proof coins. Instead, they released Special Mint Sets (SMS) with enhanced strikes. The 1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar is particularly valuable in high grades with strong eye appeal.
Auction Value: Over $30,000 for SP68 grade
How to Identify:
- No mint mark
- Distinct satin-like finish
- Sharper details than standard circulation coins
5. 1964 Proof Kennedy Half Dollar (PR70 Deep Cameo)
Why It’s Valuable:
While millions of proof coins were struck in 1964, finding one in perfect PR70 Deep Cameo condition is extremely rare. These high-grade examples are highly sought after by collectors.
Auction Value: Around $9,400
How to Identify:
- Deep mirror-like surfaces
- Strong frosted design elements
- No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint)
6. 1968-S Kennedy Half Dollar Proof
Why It’s Valuable:
Although 1968-S proof Kennedy Half Dollars are common, examples with Deep Cameo contrast and perfect surfaces are extremely rare. The highest-graded specimens command premium prices at auction.
Auction Value: Over $21,000 in PR70 Deep Cameo
How to Identify:
- “S” mint mark above the date
- Deep mirror background and frosted raised design
Top Kennedy Half Dollars Worth Over $800,000
| 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+ |
Could You Be Holding a Hidden Treasure?
The Kennedy Half Dollar is not just a collector’s item; it could be a hidden fortune in your coin jar. From the elusive 1964 SMS to the 1970-D rarity, these coins have commanded astonishing prices at auctions.
If you own any Kennedy Half Dollars, now is the time to examine them closely. With just one rare coin, you could be holding a piece worth over $800,000 a discovery you certainly wouldn’t want to overlook!
FAQs
How can I tell if my Kennedy Half Dollar is rare or valuable?
Look for key indicators such as mint marks, unique finishes (cameo or satin), and year of issue. Coins in high grades or with distinctive features tend to be the most valuable.
What does “SMS” mean in coin collecting?
SMS stands for Special Mint Set – these were limited-edition sets produced between 1965–1967, offering higher quality strikes than normal coins.
Are all silver Kennedy Half Dollars valuable?
Not all are highly valuable. Most circulated silver Kennedy Half Dollars are worth their silver content (around $8–$12). However, rare varieties and high-grade examples can be worth thousands.
