Kennedy Half Dollar Value
1964–present · 50¢ · 90% silver (1964), 40% silver (1965–1970), copper-nickel clad (1971–present)
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $1.00 |
| Good (G-4) | $2.00 |
| Fine (F-12) | $5.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $12.00 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $36.00 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $180.00 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1964 | First year, 90% silver — heavily hoarded | $12–$25 |
| 1970-D | Not released for circulation, only in mint sets | $25–$80 |
| 1964 Accented Hair | Scarce variety with accented hair detail on obverse | $50–$500 |
| 1966 SMS | Special Mint Set issue with 40% silver | $15–$50 |
| 1987-D | Low mintage modern issue | $5–$20 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- Gilroy Roberts / Frank Gasparro
- Years
- 1964–present
- Denomination
- 50¢
- Composition
- 90% silver (1964), 40% silver (1965–1970), copper-nickel clad (1971–present)
- Diameter
- 30.6 mm
- Weight
- 11.34 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
Kennedy Half Dollar: History & Background
The Kennedy Half Dollar was introduced in 1964 as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy following his assassination in November 1963. Congress authorized the coin just weeks after his death, and the first strikes were released in January 1964. The 1964 issue was struck in 90% silver and was so heavily hoarded by the public that it rarely circulated. The composition was reduced to 40% silver from 1965 through 1970, then changed to copper-nickel clad in 1971. Since 2002, the coin has been produced only for collectors and not released into general circulation.
How to Grade a Kennedy Half Dollar
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →