The allure of 90% silver half-dollar coins lies in their dual role as tangible assets and pieces of history. Whether stacking silver half dollars for a rainy day, investing in junk silver, or having an interest in historic U.S. coins, these 50-cent pieces offer a unique and valuable addition to any collection or investment portfolio.
Buying 90% half dollars offers a unique approach to stacking silver and connects collectors and investors to a piece of U.S. history. In 1964, the composition of half dollars changed to the modern clad version due to the dramatic rise in silver prices. These historic U.S. coins, minted before 1965, also present a valuable opportunity for those interested in junk silver investment.
It’s possible to still find half of silver dollars in circulation in some parts of the country. You can inquire with your local bank branches and credit unions about bankrolls of half-dollar coins. Often, 90% silver half dollars get mixed in with modern clad coins, particularly ones that other customers may have wrapped and brought in for deposit. If you’re interested in coin roll hunting, be sure to make friends with the bank tellers at your local branches. They may be kind enough to set some aside that you can buy for face value.
20th Century Silver Half Dollars
Barber Half Dollar (1892-1915)
Named after its designer, Charles E. Barber, this coin features Lady Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. As a staple in junk silver investment, the Barber Half Dollar stands out. Mintage numbers vary widely, with some years producing over 5 million coins and others, particularly the earlier years, having far fewer.
Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947)
Admired for its design, this coin, created by Adolph A. Weinman, depicts a striding Lady Liberty. It’s considered one of the most beautiful U.S. coins. The modern American Silver Eagle inherited its original design.
Highly regarded among historic US coins, the Walking Liberty is a favorite for stacking silver half dollars. Its intricate design and silver content make it a must-have. Mintage ranged from a few hundred thousand to the tens of millions in later years.
Franklin Half Dollar (1948-1963)
The most popular half dollar with investors is the Franklin Silver Half Dollar. Featuring Benjamin Franklin, the iconic American inventor, on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse, this coin has a notably more modern design. Its depiction of one of the most notable founding fathers and former Secretary of State adds historical significance.
The Franklin Half Dollar is widely recognizable, making it a wise choice for those looking to diversify their junk silver investment. Annual mintage generally ranged from 2 to 25 million. When buying circulated 90% silver half-dollar coins, it’s a pleasant surprise to find specimens with Full Bell Lines (FBL).
Transition Away from 90% Silver
During the early 1960s, the US Mint was encouraged to find alternatives for silver in circulating coinage due to rising commodities prices. With silver in demand due to a variety of industrial advances, prices were rising and people were hoarding every silver half dollar that they could get their hands on. This led to a coin shortage and caused the economy to nearly grind to a halt during that period. However, some notable silver half dollars were minted after this time:
Kennedy Half Dollar (1964-present)
Initially minted in 90% silver in 1964, this coin was introduced as a memorial to President John F. Kennedy. The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar had over 400 million minted between the Philadelphia and Denver Mints (1964 and 1964-D).
Collectors and ordinary people pulled many of these from circulation as keepsakes and intrinsic value. Today, they are the most sought-after by junk silver investors and preppers due to the extremely high mintage amount, recognizability, and limited circulation. They are also easy to visually verify by looking at the edge and date.
There are a variety of proof-finish coins and die variations sought out by collectors and fetch significant premiums. Specimens in AU and BU condition can still be found when buying bulk lots, and good flips can be made for a quick profit to buy more silver.
From 1965 to 1970, Kennedy half dollars were minted with a 40% silver alloy.
Silver Proof Half Dollars
Walking Liberty Proofs (1916–1917 and 1936–1942)
Walking Liberty Proof coins are specially minted and feature a striking mirror-like finish. In most years, the Mint issued 50,000 to 75,000 proof coins on average.
Proof Franklin Half Dollars (1948-1963)
While comprehensive mintage data is extensive, there are a few standout dates in the Franklin Proof coins that had lower mintages.
Special Mint Sets (1965-1967)
While not 90% silver, these coins were struck in 40% silver as part of special mint sets during the years when no proof sets were issued.
Silver Proof Sets (1992-present)
The U.S. Mint resumed the production of 90% silver proof sets in 1992. These sets include half dollars with the same design as the Kennedy half dollars but are minted in the traditional 90% silver composition. These coins have a distinct sheen that clad coins can’t match. These modern silver proof coins are minted at the San Francisco Mint and include the S mint mark.
Silver Half Dollar Key Dates
For those looking for numismatic investment opportunities, certain key dates that often fetch high include the early issues of the Walking Liberty and select years of the Barber and Franklin series. These coins are more than just junk silver; they’re treasures of American numismatics. For those interested in collecting or investing in 90% silver half dollars, look for :
- 1916 and 1921 Walking Liberty Half Dollars: These are known for their lower mintage and are highly sought after by collectors.
- 1938-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar: Another rare coin, particularly in higher grades.
- Franklin Half Dollars (1948-1963): While generally more available, early years and well-preserved specimens are prized. Look for Franklin Half Dollar Proof coins with a high grade from NGC and PCGS to get a better understanding of how these coin are priced.
- 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar: Although not rare due to its high mintage, it remains popular due to its historical significance and being the last 90% silver half dollar for circulation.
For collectors and investors, these coins offer not just the intrinsic value of silver but also a piece of history that continues to fascinate and inspire. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a new collector, the journey through the world of silver half dollars is sure to be a rewarding one.