First minted in 1964 to honor the memory of President John F. Kennedy, the Kennedy Half Dollar has served as a medium of exchange and a collectible item for numismatists around the world. While most are worth their face value, certain key dates can carry significant numismatic value.
This was the first new coin featuring a president’s likeness following the Franklin series. In its inaugural year, the coin was minted only in 90% silver. From 1965 until 1970, the Kennedy Half Dollar was minted in 40% silver before changing to clad beginning with the 1971 mintage.
The obverse features a portrait of President John F. Kennedy, designed by Gilroy Roberts, while the reverse depicts the Presidential Seal.
In addition to the intrinsic silver value of the earlier issues, a number of clad varieties are worth substantially more than their face values.
These include key dates of low mintages, minting mistakes, design changes, proof coins, and other unique finishes.
Understanding the key dates and notable error coins within the Kennedy Half Dollar series provides insight into its historical and numismatic importance.
Memorial Kennedy Half Dollar Design
Gilroy Roberts was commissioned by the Mint to design the obverse. Roberts was known for his work on other coins and created the composite portrait from photographs taken by Yousuf Karsh.
The reverse features the Presidential Seal designed by Frank Gasparro.
Series Key Dates
1964 Accented Hair Proof
This variety features extra hair detail above President Kennedy’s ear and was part of the initial proof strikes before a design modification. Its limited production makes it scarce and valued among collectors.
Value Range: $100 to $1,500
High-grade examples (PR65 and above) can command significant premiums, with prices ranging from $200 to over $1,500 for top-graded coins.
1964-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
An error coin exhibiting noticeable doubling on the obverse inscriptions, particularly evident in “WE TRUST” and the date.
In circulated grades, values range from $50 to $100. Uncirculated coins are more valuable, with MS65 grades reaching up to $500 and higher grades exceeding $1,000.
1970-D
The 1970-D Kennedy half dollar was only issued in mint sets, making it the lowest mintage circulation issue of the series.
While not exceedingly rare, it carries a premium over face value. Uncirculated range from $15 to $35, with MS67 specimens fetching up to $150.
1970-S Proof
Available only in proof sets, the 1970-S is valued slightly higher than common proofs due to its lower mintage.
Proof coins in PR65 condition are valued around $15, with higher grades reaching up to $50.
1974-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
Features doubling on the obverse inscriptions, most notably on “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY.”
Circulated coins range from $15 to $30. Uncirculated coins in MS65 condition can reach $150, with top grades commanding up to $500.
1987-P and 1987-D Half Dollar Values
The 1987-D and 1987-P issues were exclusively released in Mint Sets, with no coins issued for regular circulation. Consequently, most of these coins remain in high grade condition, with only those graded MS67 or higher being scarce.
Slightly higher than face value, with circulated half dollar values between $2 and $5. Uncirculated coins can reach up to $15, with MS67 grades up to $50.
1998-S Matte Finish (Kennedy Collectors Set)
Issued only in the special Robert F. Kennedy commemorative set, this coin features a unique matte finish.
In PR65 condition, these coins are valued around $500, with higher grades reaching up to $800.
2014-W 50th Anniversary Proof Gold Half Dollar Values
A special issue struck in 3/4 oz of .9999 fine gold to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Kennedy half dollar.
Values are closely tied to the gold market price, with coins generally valued between $2,800 and $3,500.
Kennedy Half Dollar Key Date Values Chart
While most Kennedy Half Dollars are worth the silver melt value, key dates and error coins are worth significantly more.
| Date/Variety | Circulated Grades | Uncirculated (MS60) | MS63 | MS65 | MS67 and Above |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 Accented Hair Proof | N/A | N/A | N/A | $200 | $500 – $1,500 |
| 1964-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) | $50 – $100 | $150 | $250 | $500 | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| 1970-D | N/A | $15 | $20 | $35 | $75 – $150 |
| 1970-S Proof | N/A | N/A | N/A | $15 | $25 – $50 |
| 1974-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) | $15 – $30 | $50 | $75 | $150 | $300 – $500 |
| 1987-P and 1987-D | $2 – $5 | $5 | $7 | $15 | $25 – $50 |
| 1998-S Matte Finish (Kennedy Collectors Set) | N/A | N/A | N/A | $500 | $600 – $800 |
| 2014-W 50th Anniversary Gold Proof | N/A | N/A | N/A | $2,800 | $2,800 – $3,200 |
Final Thoughts
While many Kennedy half dollar values are 50 cents, those minted from silver carry the intrinsic melt value. Certain dates, varieties, and special issues can also have significant collector value. Always consult current price guides or professional numismatists to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information when buying or selling coins.
Understanding Coin Grades
- Circulated Grades: Coins that have been in use and show varying degrees of wear.
- Mint State (MS60 – MS70): Higher MS grades indicate fewer imperfections and better eye appeal.
- Proof Coins (PR): Proof coins are graded on the same scale but are designated with “PR” or “PF”.