The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar remains one of the most iconic U.S. coins, cherished by collectors and silver investors alike. As the very first year of issue for the Kennedy half series, it stands out not only for its historical significance but also for its silver content.
Understanding the 1964 Half Dollar Value and what makes specific examples more valuable can help you spot key dates, rare errors, and proof varieties that command serious premiums.
Key Highlights:
- The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is 90% silver and highly sought after.
- Rare errors and proof coins from 1964 can be worth hundreds to thousands of dollars.
- The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Value depends on condition, variety, and silver price.
- Learn which features make the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar rare and collectible.
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar: Background & Design
First struck in early 1964 to honor the late President John F. Kennedy, the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar features a portrait designed by Gilroy Roberts on the obverse, and the Presidential Seal by Frank Gasparro on the reverse. The inaugural issue was minted in 90% silver—the only regular-issue Kennedy half to contain such high silver content. From 1965 to 1970, coins were reduced to 40% silver before shifting to a copper-nickel clad composition in 1971.
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, specific key dates can carry significant numismatic value.
Following the Franklin series, this was the first new coin featuring a president’s likeness. In its inaugural year, the coin was minted 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.
What Makes a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Rare?
Not all 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are created equal. While millions were minted, certain varieties and errors are prized by collectors:
- Accented Hair Proofs: Early proof coins show extra hair detail above Kennedy’s ear—highly sought after, with PR65 specimens bringing hundreds or even over $1,000 in top grades.
- Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): Some 1964-D coins have noticeable doubling in the inscriptions and date. High-grade examples can fetch $500–$2,000.
- Condition: Uncirculated and proof coins command significant premiums. Graded coins in MS65 or higher can be worth much more than melt value.
- Silver Content: Every 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar contains about 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver, giving it a robust intrinsic value.
- Low-Mintage Errors: Certain mint errors, like clipped planchets or off-center strikes, can make specific coins unique and valuable.
In addition to the intrinsic silver value of the earlier issues, some 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.
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Value Chart
While most Kennedy Half Dollars are worth 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 |
| 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (regular) | $12 – $15 | $16 | $20 | $25 – $80 | $100 – $400 |
Key Varieties, Errors & Proofs
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 in top condition, it is worth up to $1,500.
Value Range: $100 to $1,500
Prices for high-grade specimens grade PR65 and above can range from $200 to over $1,500.
1964-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
An error coin exhibits a noticeable doubling on the obverse inscriptions, particularly in “WE TRUST” and the date.
Values range from $50 to $100 in circulated grades. Uncirculated coins are more valuable, with MS65 grades reaching up to $500 and higher grades exceeding $1,000.
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Value: Grading and Condition
- Circulated coins: Value tied closely to silver content (usually $10–$12 based on spot silver price).
- Uncirculated coins: Values climb significantly, especially for MS65 and above.
- Proof coins: 1964 proofs can bring higher prices, especially Accented Hair and high-grade examples.
How to Sell Your 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
- Inspect for Errors: Use a magnifier to spot doubling, accented hair, or planchet flaws.
- Check the Condition: Higher grades mean higher value.
- Use a Coin Scale: Confirm full weight and silver content for authenticity.
- Consult Price Guides: Reference up-to-date guides or certified grading services (like PCGS or NGC).
- Sell to Reputable Dealers: Ensure fair offers for silver value and collectability.
Final Thoughts
While clad half dollars are worth 50 cents, Kennedy Half Dollars minted from 90% silver carry the intrinsic value of the metal. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much is a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar worth?
A: Most are worth the silver melt value, but rare errors or proof coins can be worth hundreds or thousands.
Q: What makes a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar rare?
A: Look for Accented Hair proofs, Doubled Die Obverses, and high-grade uncirculated coins.
Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar?
A: On the reverse, just below the eagle’s claw.
Q: Should I sell my 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar?
A: If it’s a regular circulated coin, it may be best to hold for silver or sell when prices are high. Rare varieties and proofs are best sold to specialist dealers or at auction.
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”.
