3 Rare Kennedy Half Dollars You Might Have in Your Spare Change

If you’ve ever received a Kennedy Half Dollar as change and tossed it aside without a second glance, you might want to dig it back out. While most Kennedy Half Dollars are only worth face value, a few rare versions are worth hundreds, even thousands of dollars to collectors. Here are the top 3 rare Kennedy Half Dollars that could be hiding in your loose change – and might just make you richer than you think.

3 Rare Kennedy Half Dollars

Coin Type	Year	Mint Mark	Distinctive Feature	Estimated Mintage	Composition	Notable Value Factors
Accented Hair Proof	1964	None	Pronounced hair above ear; altered “I”	~100,000	90% Silver	Unique design; limited mintage
1970-D	1970	D	Not released for circulation; 40% silver	Limited	40% Silver	Limited release; end of silver era
No FG Error	1982	P	Missing “FG” initials on reverse	Rare	Clad	Minting error; collector interest

1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver)

The first-ever Kennedy Half Dollar, issued in 1964, holds a special place in American coin history. Struck in honor of President John F. Kennedy simply months after his assassination, this coin become minted using 90% silver.

Why It’s Valuable:

• All 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars contain 0.3617 ounces of pure silver.
• Due to silver content and demand from collectors, even circulated versions can sell for $10–$30, while uncirculated or proof versions can fetch $100+.

What to Look For:

• Mint mark “D” (Denver) or no mark (Philadelphia)
• Deep luster and crisp detail indicate better grades
• Proof versions with mirror-like finish are worth more

1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar

The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is a key date for collectors. It become now not launched into standard move and became most effective included in U.S. Mint collector sets, making it extremely uncommon in pocket exchange.

Why It’s Valuable:

• It was the last 40% silver Kennedy Half Dollar.
• Only 2.15 million were struck, all for collectors.
• Circulated examples are rare but could be worth $100–$200, with mint state versions reaching $500 or more.

What to Look For:

• “D” mint mark on the reverse
• Sharp strike and no signs of wear
• Slightly heavier than copper-nickel versions due to silver content

1967 SMS (Special Mint Set) Kennedy Half Dollar

In 1967, the U.S. Mint did not produce traditional proof coins but instead released Special Mint Sets (SMS). Some of these Kennedy Half Dollars display “cameo” or “deep cameo” finishes, which are highly sought after.

Why It’s Valuable:

• Not intended for general circulation, but some made it into the wild
• Coins with cameo or deep cameo contrast can sell for $100+
• Regular SMS versions still command a premium over face value

What to Look For:

• Mirror-like background with frosted details
• No mint mark, but minted in San Francisco
• Weight and tone slightly different from regular business strikes

Bonus Tip: Silver Content Adds Value Too!

Kennedy Half Dollars minted:

• 1964 are 90% silver
• 1965–1970 are 40% silver

Even common-date silver Kennedy halves are worth more than face value just for their silver content alone—typically $4–$8 each depending on the market.

Final Thought

Rare Kennedy Half Dollars are more than just historic keepsakes — they’re hidden treasures waiting to be found. Whether it’s the silver-rich 1964 issue, the elusive 1970-D, or a rare 1967 error coin, these coins could be worth hundreds or even thousands. All it takes is a sharp eye, a little knowledge, and maybe a touch of luck.

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