Introduced in 1964, the Kennedy Half Dollar 7 became the anchor for coin collectors and investors. Though many of the coins circulate at face value, certain years and variations are in strong demand, with values reaching into the thousands.
Here, we will analyze the top seven Kennedy Half Dollars that could appreciably increase the value of a collection, as well as two noteworthy rarities that hold their own interest.
1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar is exceptionally desirable and rare for its quality, having been minted in limited quantities. The satin finish gives the coin a very distinct look that lends departure from the regular strike.
- Features to Note: Satin appearance with sharp details.
- Approximate Values: A pristine coin is worth up to $156,000.
1964 Regular Strike Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1964 regular strike is the first in the Kennedy Half Dollar series and is very much sought after because of its 90% silver content and historical importance. High-grade examples are particularly sought after.
- Features to Note: Struck in 90% silver; rarely in high quality.
- Approximate Values: A coin in such excellent condition may fetch around $57,600.
1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar,
which simply is a spectacular piece with a high-quality strike and much less availability. They were created to be part of special mint sets meant for collectors.
- Significance: Top quality satin finish with very few imperfections
- Value Estimate: About $31,200 for examples in mint condition
1980-P Overstruck on Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Extremely interesting error coin, the 1980-P Kennedy Half Dollar overstruck on a Susan B. Anthony Dollar would make a stand-alone find and might improve any collection by nearly the same amount.
- Distinguishing Features: Features the Kennedy Half Dollar design overlaid on the Susan B. Anthony Dollar.
- Approximate Value: Up to $22,325, depending on condition.
1968-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
A coin very much known for its mirrored surfaces and sharp details is the 1968-S Proof Kennedy half Dollar. As it is deemed one proof coin, it was specifically minted for collectors, thus making it a very valuable item.
- Distinguishing Features: Mirror-like finish with sharp details.
- Approximate Value: Up to $21,600 for coins in excellent condition.
1964 PR 70 DCAM Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1964 Proof 70 Deep Cameo (DCAM) Kennedy Half Dollar is a superb coin and is shown flawless in design and finish. Such coins become rare and very much sought after.
- Distinguishing Features: Perfect grade with deep frost, designs are against mirrored backgrounds.
- Approximate Value: Values would exceed $9,400, depending on market demand.
1964 (Accent Hair) Kennedy Half Dollar
Another interesting variety of coins is the subtle alteration of design that makes a noted difference, even mild, in most collectors’ minds, of the 1964 Accent Hair Kennedy Half Dollar, in which the hair above Kennedy’s ear is much more pronounced.
- Distinguishing Features: Hair detail above the ear noticeably accentuated.
- Approximate Value: Up to $9,400 for high-quality specimens.
A 1965 MS 67 Kennedy Half Dollar
This 1965 MS 67 Kennedy Half Dollar is a significant coin in that it stands out among collectors due to its high state of preservation.
- Unique Characteristics: Highly exceptional mint state with limited imperfections.
- Approximate Value: As high as $9,000, depending on condition and marketability.
1966 PCGS MS68 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1966 PCGS MS68 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar, for its quality and visual appeal, is well recognized.
- Unique Characteristics: A high-grade mint state finish coin with luster.
- Approximate Value: To $16,450 based on coin condition and collector demand.
The Kennedy Half Dollar series hosts a host of rare and valuable coins, among which the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar and 1964 Proof 70 DCAM are the most coveted. Whether you are an old pro in coin collecting or a novice, you ought to appreciate the importance of a technical minting quality, errors, and special editions in coin valuation.
By identifying these rare coins and learning how to take care of them, you are potentially holding a life-transforming asset in your collection.
FAQS:
How do I know if I own a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar with Full Steps?
To identify a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar with Full Steps, flip over the coin and look at the reverse-the steps on Monticello. A Full Steps coin has all five steps fully visible, a sign of great strikes.
Why is the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar so prized?
The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar has a low production number and a satin finish of high quality, making it very rare. These coins were specially prepared for the collectors, ranking them among the most beautiful coins of the Kennedy Half Dollar series.
Are all the Kennedy Half Dollars from 1964 valuable?
Not all of these 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are precious, but they may bear great value, whether with Full Steps, special mint finishes, or high grades on them. It is advisable to check out the condition of the coin before going to price evaluation since more might be in consideration alongside errors.
How does it mean in a market when it comes to the assessment of the monetary value of Kennedy Half Dollars?
The value of Kennedy Half Dollars is determined by market demand, the condition of the coin, and, of course, its rarity. In general, coins that are in strong demand by collectors or in excellent condition pay a premium. At the very least, it is subject to fluctuation as a market and thus value.
Where can I auction off my collection of Kennedy Half Dollars?
You can sell your collection of Kennedy Half Dollars through any outlet, including local and online dealers, auctions, and coin shows. It would be advisable to have the coins graded and authenticated through a service like PCGS or NGC for best value if you want to sell them.