Half Dollar Value Chart: What Are Your Coins Worth?

Kennedy half dollar coins from different years displayed for value comparison

That handful of coins you found in a drawer could be worth more than you think. The Kennedy half dollar, minted every year since 1964, is one of the most collected U.S. coins. But many people don’t realize that some of these coins, especially those minted between 1964 and 1970, contain real silver. A single 1964 Kennedy half dollar can be worth over twenty dollars in silver alone! To truly understand what you have, you need a reliable half dollar value chart. We’ve created one to help you easily check the Kennedy half dollar value by year.

The answer depends on three things: the year, the mint mark, and the condition. Some Kennedy half dollars contain silver and carry real metal value. Others are worth face value unless they happen to be a scarce date or sit in exceptional condition.

PGS Gold & Coin buys Kennedy half dollars at all five Chicagoland locations. Bring your coins in for a free appraisal, no appointment needed.

This guide covers every era of the Kennedy half dollar series with current 2026 values, silver melt calculations, key dates, and error varieties worth searching for.

A Brief History of U.S. Half Dollars

Before the Kennedy half dollar became the standard, two other iconic 50-cent pieces were mainstays in American pockets. If you’ve come across these older coins, you’re likely holding a piece of history with real silver value.

Walking Liberty Half Dollars (1916-1947)

Design and Legacy

The Walking Liberty Half Dollar is often celebrated as one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the U.S. Mint. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, this coin was minted from 1916 to 1947. The front, or obverse, features a stunning full-length figure of Lady Liberty striding toward the sunrise, draped in the American flag and carrying branches of laurel and oak. This powerful imagery was meant to symbolize a nation’s hope and forward-looking spirit. The reverse depicts a majestic eagle perched on a mountain crag, wings unfolded. Its timeless design is so beloved that it was brought back for the American Silver Eagle bullion coin starting in 1986.

Value, Key Dates, and Errors

Because they are made of 90% silver, all Walking Liberty half dollars have a base value tied to the metal market. However, their collector value can be much higher. The price for a Walking Liberty Half Dollar can range from about $10 for a common, well-circulated coin to thousands for a rare date in pristine condition. For instance, a 1916 half dollar in “good” shape might be valued around $50, while a mint-condition “uncirculated” version could fetch over $265. Key dates to look for include 1916-S, 1921, and 1921-D. The only way to know for sure what your collection is worth is to have it professionally appraised. Our experts can help you identify these valuable coins and provide a fair market offer.

Franklin Half Dollars (1948-1963)

Design and Minting History

Following the Walking Liberty series, the Franklin Half Dollar was minted from 1948 until 1963. This coin broke tradition by featuring a prominent, non-presidential figure: Benjamin Franklin. The design, by Chief Engraver John R. Sinnock, was based on a bust by sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon. The reverse is equally historic, showcasing the Liberty Bell, complete with its famous crack. A tiny eagle was added to the right of the bell to satisfy a long-standing legal requirement that all half dollars feature an eagle. This coin pays homage to one of America’s most respected founding fathers and a powerful symbol of its independence.

Factors Influencing Value

Like its predecessor, all Franklin half dollars contain 90% silver, giving them a solid melt value based on the day’s silver prices. However, several other factors determine their final worth. According to the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), a coin’s value is influenced by its condition, rarity, market demand, and any unique characteristics. For Franklin halves, collectors often pay a premium for coins with “Full Bell Lines” (FBL), a designation for sharply struck coins where the horizontal lines on the Liberty Bell are clear and complete. Because so many variables are at play, the best way to understand your coin’s value is to consult an expert. You can visit any of our Chicagoland locations for a free, no-obligation evaluation from our team of numismatists.

Your Kennedy Half Dollar Value Chart by Era

Kennedy half dollars fall into four distinct groups based on their metal composition. This quick-reference table shows what each era is worth at a glance.

EraYearsCompositionSilver (oz)Melt ValueCirculated ValueMS-65 Value
90% Silver196490% silver, 10% copper0.36169$28.83$28-$30$65-$150
40% Silver1965-197040% silver clad0.1479$11.79$4-$6$25-$60
Clad1971-2001Copper-nickel clad0$0.06$0.50$5-$15
Collector Only2002-presentCopper-nickel clad0$0.06$0.50$3-$10
Modern Silver Proof1992-present90% silver0.36169$28.83N/APR-69: $20-$40

Melt values are based on the April 2026 silver spot price of approximately $79.72 per troy ounce. Silver has surged roughly 145% over the past year, which means even common circulated 1964 Kennedy halves now carry close to $29 in silver content alone.

What’s a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Worth? (90% Silver)

The 1964 Kennedy half dollar was the first year of issue, struck in 90% silver following President John F. Kennedy’s assassination in November 1963. Congress authorized the new design in record time, and the public rushed to obtain them. The Philadelphia Mint produced over 273 million coins, with Denver adding another 156 million.

Despite that enormous mintage, every 1964 Kennedy half dollar contains 0.36169 troy ounces of pure silver. At today’s prices, that puts a floor under even the most worn examples.

Grade1964 (P) Value1964-D Value
Good to Very Good (circulated, worn)$28-$30$28-$30
Fine (F-12)$28-$30$28-$30
Very Fine (VF-20)$28-$30$28-$30
Extremely Fine (EF-40)$29-$31$29-$31
About Uncirculated (AU-50)$30-$33$30-$33
MS-60 (Uncirculated)$32-$35$32-$35
MS-63$35-$45$35-$45
MS-64$45-$65$45-$65
MS-65 (Gem)$65-$150$65-$150
MS-66$200-$500$200-$500
MS-67$2,500-$5,000+$2,500-$5,000+

In circulated grades, 1964 Kennedy halves trade right around their silver melt value. Real premiums begin at MS-65 and above, where the supply thins out. An MS-67 example can bring $2,500 to $5,000 or more because finding a 60-year-old coin with almost no bag marks is genuinely difficult.

Weight and Composition

The metal makeup of a Kennedy half dollar is the single most important factor in its base value. Over the years, the U.S. Mint changed the coin’s composition, which is why some are worth much more than others. The very first Kennedy halves, minted only in 1964, are made of 90% silver. From 1965 to 1970, the mint switched to a 40% silver “clad” structure. After 1970, all circulating Kennedy half dollars were struck from a copper-nickel blend, containing no silver at all. This is the first thing our experts check when we evaluate silver coins. Knowing the year instantly tells us whether we’re looking at a coin with significant precious metal value or one that’s likely worth just its face value.

What’s a 1964 Proof Kennedy Half Dollar Worth?

The Philadelphia Mint struck 3,950,762 proof coins in 1964. These were sold directly to collectors in proof sets and feature mirror-like fields with frosted design elements.

GradeValue
PR-63$35-$50
PR-65$50-$75
PR-67$100-$200
PR-68 Deep Cameo$300-$600
PR-69 Deep Cameo$800-$2,000+

The “Deep Cameo” designation indicates heavy contrast between the frosted design and mirror fields. These command a strong premium in PR-68 and PR-69.

What Years of Kennedy Half Dollars Are Silver?

Kennedy half dollars contain silver in two distinct periods:

  • 1964: 90% silver composition. Each coin holds 0.36169 troy ounces of pure silver.
  • 1965-1970: 40% silver clad composition. Each coin holds 0.1479 troy ounces of pure silver.

Starting in 1971, regular Kennedy half dollars switched to copper-nickel clad with no silver content. The exception: since 1992, the U.S. Mint has produced special 90% silver proof Kennedy half dollars available only in Silver Proof Sets sold to collectors.

If your half dollars contain silver and you want to compare them with current silver inventory, review PGS Gold & Coin’s 90% silver coins and bullion selection. The easiest way to check whether your Kennedy half dollar is silver is to look at the edge. Silver coins have a uniform silver-colored edge. Clad coins show a visible copper-orange stripe sandwiched between the outer layers.

How Much Are 1965-1970 Kennedy Half Dollars Worth? (40% Silver)

When the Coinage Act of 1965 reduced silver content in U.S. coins, the Kennedy half dollar received a special compromise: 40% silver instead of the full elimination that dimes and quarters received. This silver-clad composition lasted through 1970.

YearMintMintageNotes
1965Philadelphia65,879,366No mint marks 1965-1967
1966Philadelphia108,984,932No mint marks 1965-1967
1967Philadelphia295,046,978Highest mintage of the series
1968-DDenver246,951,930Mint marks return
1969-DDenver129,881,800
1970-DDenver2,150,000Key date, Mint Set only

Weight and Composition

The metal makeup of a Kennedy half dollar is the single most important factor in its base value. Over the years, the U.S. Mint changed the coin’s composition, which is why some are worth much more than others. The very first Kennedy halves, minted only in 1964, are made of 90% silver. From 1965 to 1970, the mint switched to a 40% silver “clad” structure. After 1970, all circulating Kennedy half dollars were struck from a copper-nickel blend, containing no silver at all. This is the first thing our experts check when we evaluate silver coins. Knowing the year instantly tells us whether we’re looking at a coin with significant precious metal value or one that’s likely worth just its face value.

Valuing Standard Business Strikes (1965-1969)

GradeValue Range
Circulated (VG-VF)$4-$6
EF-AU$5-$8
MS-60$7-$10
MS-63$10-$15
MS-64$15-$25
MS-65$25-$60
MS-66$75-$200
MS-67$300-$500+

Circulated examples of 1965 through 1969 Kennedy halves trade near their 40% silver melt value (about $11.79 at today’s silver prices). Uncirculated coins in the MS-63 to MS-65 range are affordable at $10 to $60, making them a popular entry point for new collectors. If you are new to grading, our coin grading basics guide explains what each grade means.

Valuing Special Mint Sets (SMS) from 1965-1967

From 1965 to 1967, the U.S. Mint replaced proof sets and uncirculated sets with Special Mint Sets. These coins have a finish quality between a regular business strike and a proof, with sharper detail and a slight satin luster. Grading services designate them with an “SP” (Specimen) prefix.

Grade1965 SMS1966 SMS1967 SMS
SP-63$8-$12$8-$12$8-$12
SP-65$12-$20$12-$20$12-$20
SP-66$20-$40$20-$40$25-$50
SP-67$50-$150$50-$150$75-$200
SP-68$200-$500+$200-$500+$300-$750+

Complete SMS sets in original government packaging sell for $10 to $15 each. The real value is in coins that grade SP-67 or higher when submitted to a third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC.

Valuing San Francisco Proofs (1968-1970)

YearMintagePR-65PR-67PR-68 DCAMPR-69 DCAM
1968-S3,041,506$8-$12$15-$25$30-$60$100-$200
1969-S2,934,631$8-$12$15-$25$30-$60$100-$200
1970-S2,632,810$10-$15$20-$35$40-$75$125-$250

Have silver Kennedy half dollars to sell? PGS Gold & Coin pays competitive prices based on current silver content and numismatic value. Walk into any of our five locations for a free evaluation.

The Low-Mintage 1970-S

The 1970-S Kennedy half dollar is a standout coin for collectors and a key date in the series. With a mintage of only 2,632,810, it’s the scarcest of the 40% silver proofs. This limited production makes it highly sought after, with its value driven by rarity rather than just its silver content. While a typical 40% silver proof might be worth around $8-$12, the 1970-S starts higher and climbs quickly with grade. A nice PR-67 example can bring $20 to $35, and top-tier specimens in PR-69 Deep Cameo can command between $125 and $250. Because of this premium, it’s a valuable addition to any collection and a coin you should definitely set aside if you find one.

What Are Modern Clad Kennedy Half Dollars Worth? (1971-Present)

Beginning in 1971, Kennedy half dollars switched to copper-nickel clad with no silver content. Most clad Kennedys from the 1970s through 2000s are worth face value in circulated condition. The U.S. Mint stopped producing Kennedy halves for general circulation in 2002, though they have continued striking them for collector sets every year since.

GradeValue Range
Circulated$0.50 (face value)
MS-60$1-$2
MS-63$2-$5
MS-65$5-$15
MS-66$15-$40
MS-67$50-$200+

Weight and Composition

The metal makeup of a Kennedy half dollar is the single most important factor in its base value. Over the years, the U.S. Mint changed the coin’s composition, which is why some are worth much more than others. The very first Kennedy halves, minted only in 1964, are made of 90% silver. From 1965 to 1970, the mint switched to a 40% silver “clad” structure. After 1970, all circulating Kennedy half dollars were struck from a copper-nickel blend, containing no silver at all. This is the first thing our experts check when we evaluate silver coins. Knowing the year instantly tells us whether we’re looking at a coin with significant precious metal value or one that’s likely worth just its face value.

Which Clad Kennedy Dates Are Worth More?

While most clad Kennedy halves are common, a few dates stand out:

DateWhy It’s SpecialValue
1971-DFirst clad year, collector demandMS-65: $15-$25
1987-P and 1987-DNot struck for circulation, only available in Mint SetsMS-65: $5-$15; MS-67: $30-$50+
2014-W 50th Anniversary Gold3/4 oz gold Kennedy, limited mintage$1,200-$1,500+
2014-P/D 50th Anniversary SetEnhanced and Reverse Proof finishes$75-$150 for the set

Special Collector’s Editions and Finishes

Beyond the coins made for circulation, the U.S. Mint produces special versions specifically for the collector market. These coins often feature unique finishes, higher-quality strikes, or precious metal compositions that set them apart. For Kennedy half dollars, these special editions are where you can find significant value, especially in the modern clad era where standard issues are only worth face value. If you have a coin that looks different—shinier, sharper, or with a unique texture—it might be one of these collector’s items. This is particularly true for coins found in original government packaging or those that have clearly been kept separate from everyday pocket change.

High Relief and Enhanced Finishes

The U.S. Mint occasionally creates coins with exceptional visual appeal using special dies. For the 50th anniversary of the Kennedy half dollar in 2014, the Mint released a stunning high relief version made of gold. A “high relief” coin means the design, in this case Kennedy’s portrait, is struck to be much higher than the flat surface, giving it a dramatic, almost three-dimensional appearance. Other “enhanced finishes” might involve special polishing or laser-frosting techniques to highlight different parts of the design. These are not coins you’d find in your change; they are miniature works of art. If you’ve inherited a collection, it’s worth having a professional evaluate each coin for these unique and often valuable characteristics.

Silver Proof and Reverse Proof Sets

Proof coins represent the highest standard of minting, struck multiple times to create sharp details, frosted designs, and mirror-like backgrounds. Since 1992, the Mint has produced 90% Silver Proof Kennedy halves for annual collector sets. These are always in demand for their silver content and beauty; a 1992-S Silver Proof is worth around $43. The Mint also creates “Reverse Proofs,” which flip the traditional look by giving the background a frosted texture and the design a brilliant, mirrored finish. For any proof, the ultimate prize is a “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) designation, signifying a powerful contrast that collectors prize. A top-graded 1964 PR-69 Deep Cameo half dollar can be valued at $800 or more, showing just how important finish and condition are.

How Much Is a Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar Worth?

The 1976 Bicentennial Kennedy half dollar features a special reverse design showing Independence Hall, created by Seth Huntington. All Bicentennial halves carry the dual date “1776-1976” (no Kennedy halves were dated 1975). Three versions were produced: copper-nickel clad from Philadelphia and Denver, plus a 40% silver version from San Francisco.

TypeCirculatedMS-63MS-65MS-67
1976 (P) Clad$0.50-$1$2-$3$3-$6$15-$40
1976-D Clad$0.50-$1$2-$3$3-$5$12-$35
1976-S Silver (40%)$3-$6$6-$8$8-$12$25-$50
1976-S Proof (Clad)N/APR-69 DCAM: $8-$15
1976-S Proof (Silver)N/APR-69 DCAM: $15-$40

Clad Bicentennial halves were produced in huge quantities (over 521 million combined) and are common in any grade through MS-65. The silver version from San Francisco is the one to look for. Check the edge: silver editions have a solid silver edge, while clad coins show a copper stripe.

Understanding a Coin’s Value: Melt vs. Numismatic

When you’re trying to figure out what your Kennedy half dollars are worth, you’ll hear two terms come up again and again: melt value and numismatic value. Think of them as two different ways a coin can be valuable. The first is based on the raw materials the coin is made from, while the second is based on its appeal to collectors. For many coins, especially silver ones, the final price is a combination of both. Understanding the difference is the first step to knowing what you really have in your hands.

What is Melt Value?

Melt value is exactly what it sounds like: the intrinsic worth of the precious metal within a coin. For a 1964 Kennedy half dollar, this is the value of its 90% silver content based on the current market price of silver. This value acts as a price floor; a silver coin will almost never be worth less than its melt value. Because the price of silver fluctuates daily, so does a coin’s melt value. This is why a 1964 half dollar is worth so much more than its 50-cent face value—its silver content alone is significant. If you have silver coins, you can always count on them having this base level of value, which is why we are always interested in buying silver coins, regardless of their condition.

What is Numismatic Value?

Numismatic value, or collector value, is what a coin is worth beyond its metal content. This value is determined by factors like rarity, condition (grade), historical significance, and collector demand. A 1970-D Kennedy half, for example, has a high numismatic value because it was only issued in mint sets and has a very low mintage. Even though it only contains 40% silver, a pristine example is worth far more than its melt value. The better a coin’s condition—meaning fewer scratches and less wear—the higher its numismatic value. Determining this value requires a trained eye, which is why getting an expert appraisal is the best way to understand what your collection is truly worth.

Calculate Your Kennedy Half Dollar’s Silver Melt Value

Silver prices have been on a historic run. As of April 2026, silver trades near $79.72 per ounce, up roughly 145% from $32.50 a year ago. This surge has a direct impact on what your silver Kennedy halves are worth. For comparison, see how it affects Morgan silver dollar melt values. You can also check our silver coin weight and value guide or try our silver scrap value calculator.

Here is how the melt value changes at different silver prices:

Silver Spot Price1964 (90% Silver)1965-1970 (40% Silver)
$50/oz$18.08$7.40
$60/oz$21.70$8.87
$70/oz$25.32$10.35
$79.72/oz (April 2026)$28.83$11.79
$90/oz$32.55$13.31
$100/oz$36.17$14.79

How to calculate melt value yourself:

  1. Find the current silver spot price (check any financial news site).
  2. Multiply by the coin’s actual silver weight (ASW): 0.36169 oz for 1964 coins, or 0.1479 oz for 1965-1970 coins.
  3. The result is the minimum value your coin is worth based on its metal content alone.

For 1971 and later clad Kennedy halves, there is no silver and no melt premium. The intrinsic metal value of a clad half dollar is about six cents.

The Most Valuable Key Date Kennedy Half Dollars

Most Kennedy halves are common, but a few stand apart. These are the dates and varieties that collectors actively hunt for.

The 1964 Accented Hair Proof

The very first proof dies used for the 1964 Kennedy featured bolder, more detailed hair strands above Kennedy’s ear. Jacqueline Kennedy reportedly asked the Mint to soften the hair detail, so production switched to the standard version quickly. Look for stronger hair lines below the part line and a truncated serif on the “I” in LIBERTY.

GradeValue
PR-63$40-$75
PR-65$75-$150
PR-66$150-$300
PR-67 Cameo$300-$500
PR-68 Deep Cameo$500-$800
PR-69 Deep Cameo$1,000+

The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar

The 1970-D is the key date of the entire Kennedy series for business strikes. Only 2,150,000 were minted, and all of them were included in 1970 Uncirculated Mint Sets sold directly to collectors. None entered general circulation. The U.S. Mint did not publicize this decision at the time, and by the time collectors noticed, the ordering window had passed.

GradeValue
MS-62$40-$60
MS-63$55-$75
MS-64$70-$100
MS-65$100-$200
MS-66$200-$250
MS-67$5,695-$7,000+

Most 1970-D Kennedy halves grade between MS-62 and MS-65 because coins from Mint Sets often have contact marks. An MS-67 is genuinely scarce, with only a handful certified by PCGS. One sold for $5,695 in early 2025.

The 1998-S Matte Proof Kennedy Half Dollar

This 90% silver Kennedy was struck with a unique satin/matte finish and sold only as part of the “Kennedy Collector’s Set” alongside the 1998 Robert F. Kennedy Silver Dollar commemorative. The ordering window lasted just six weeks.

With a mintage of approximately 62,000, the 1998-S Matte is the lowest-mintage non-gold Kennedy half dollar in the series.

GradeValue
SP-65$70-$100
SP-67$100-$150
SP-68$150-$250
SP-69$200-$325
SP-70 (Perfect)$325-$475

Most examples grade SP-69 or SP-70 because the Mint handled them with extra care. Prices here are driven by numismatic scarcity rather than metal content.

Think you have a key date Kennedy half dollar? Bring it to PGS Gold & Coin for a free expert evaluation. Our certified numismatists can identify varieties, assess condition, and make you a competitive offer on the spot.

The 1992-S Silver Proof

After a 22-year hiatus, 90% silver made its comeback to the Kennedy half dollar in 1992, marking a new era for collectors. Starting that year, the U.S. Mint began producing special 90% silver proof Kennedy half dollars, but with a twist: they were available only in annual Silver Proof Sets sold directly to collectors. This means you won’t find these beautiful coins in your pocket change. They are prized for their high silver content and stunning proof finish, which features mirror-like backgrounds. Because they were made for collectors from the start, most remain in excellent shape. A typical 1992-S Silver Proof in a high grade like PR-69 is valued between $20 and $40, making it an accessible and important coin for any modern Kennedy collection.

The 2014-W Silver Reverse Proof

The 50th anniversary of the Kennedy half dollar in 2014 was a major event for the U.S. Mint. The celebration was headlined by the stunning 2014-W 50th Anniversary Gold Kennedy, a 3/4 oz gold coin now valued at over $1,200. Alongside it, the Mint released several special silver sets that have become collector favorites. The most sought-after coin from these sets is the 2014-W Silver Reverse Proof. A “reverse proof” flips the standard finish, featuring frosted fields and mirror-like design elements for a striking look. This coin was only available as part of a four-coin silver set, and its unique finish combined with the West Point “W” mint mark makes it a modern key date that collectors actively seek out.

The 2019-S Enhanced Reverse Proof

Just when collectors thought they had seen every type of finish, the U.S. Mint introduced the 2019-S Enhanced Reverse Proof. This coin uses special laser polishing techniques to create multiple contrasting finishes on a single surface, giving it a truly unique and dynamic appearance. It was sold as part of a set with the Apollo 11 50th Anniversary half dollar, linking it to another major moment in American history. With a limited mintage, its value is driven by scarcity and collector demand. The 2019-S Enhanced Reverse Proof is currently worth $100-$120, a significant premium for a modern half dollar. If you’re looking to add modern rarities like this to your collection, you can often find them in our online store.

Which Kennedy Half Dollar Errors Are Most Valuable?

Error coins are produced when something goes wrong during the minting process. Some Kennedy half dollar errors are worth far more than their standard counterparts. For a deeper look at how coin features affect value, see our guide to coin and paper money values.

Spotting Doubled Die Varieties

VarietyWhat to Look ForValue Range
1964 DDO (FS-102)Doubling in “IN GOD WE TRUST”$28-$390
1964 DDR (FS-801)Doubling in reverse lettering$60-$150+
1966 DDO (SMS)Doubling in “IN GOD WE TRUST”$50-$300+
1974-D DDOStrong doubling in “IN GOD WE TRUST”$10-$30

Finding “No FG” Varieties (Missing Designer Initials)

On the standard reverse, the initials “FG” for designer Frank Gasparro appear near the eagle’s tail feathers. Some dies were polished to the point where these initials disappeared.

VarietyValue RangeNotes
1972-D No FG$250-$1,000Rarest and most famous No FG variety
1982-P No FG$8-$40 (up to $2,500 in MS-67)More common but significant in top grades
1983-P No FG$15-$50Less well known

Other Key Errors to Look For

  • Off-center strikes: $25 to $500+ depending on how far off center
  • Wrong planchet errors: A Kennedy half struck on a quarter or dime planchet can bring $500 to $5,000+
  • 1964 SMS Special Strike: An ultra-rare prototype with satin finish. One sold for $47,000 in 2016.

How to Tell if Your Kennedy Half Dollar Is Valuable

Here is a step-by-step process to evaluate any Kennedy half dollar:

  1. Check the date and mint mark. The mint mark sits below the wreath bow on the reverse (1964) or above the date on the obverse (1968 and later). Letters: P (Philadelphia), D (Denver), S (San Francisco). No mint mark on 1964 Philadelphia coins or 1965-1967 coins.
  2. Look at the edge. A solid silver edge means the coin contains silver. A copper-orange stripe means it is clad with no silver content.
  3. Assess the condition. Coins with sharp, unworn detail and few marks are worth more. For help with this step, check our coin grading basics guide.
  4. Check for errors and varieties. Use a magnifying glass (5x to 10x loupe) to look for doubled lettering, missing “FG” initials, or off-center strikes.
  5. Compare to the value charts above. Match your coin’s date, mint mark, and approximate grade to find its value range.

A word of caution: never clean your coins. Cleaning removes the natural surface (called “toning” or “patina”) and dramatically reduces a coin’s value to collectors. Even a well-intentioned polish can turn a $200 coin into a $30 coin.

Where to Sell Kennedy Half Dollars

If you have Kennedy half dollars to sell, your options include local coin dealers, online marketplaces, auction houses, and coin shows. Each has trade-offs in convenience, speed, and price.

Local coin dealers like PGS Gold & Coin offer same-day payment and the ability to have your coins examined in person by a professional. That face-to-face evaluation matters: a knowledgeable dealer can spot varieties and high grades that might be missed in an online listing, and you walk out with cash in hand.

PGS Gold & Coin operates five locations across the Chicagoland area (Glen Ellyn, Palatine, Wheaton, Schaumburg, and Villa Park) with certified numismatists on staff. As authorized dealers for PCGS, NGC, PMG, and CAC, our team can accurately assess your Kennedy halves and pay competitive prices based on current market values.

Visit PGS Gold & Coin to sell your Kennedy half dollars. Free appraisals, same-day payment, and over 17 years of trusted service. Walk in Monday through Friday 10 AM to 6 PM, or Saturday 10 AM to 3 PM.

Frequently Asked Questions

What year Kennedy half dollars are silver?

Kennedy half dollars from 1964 are 90% silver (0.36169 oz of pure silver per coin). Coins from 1965 through 1970 contain 40% silver (0.1479 oz per coin). Starting in 1971, standard Kennedy halves switched to copper-nickel clad with no silver. The U.S. Mint has produced special 90% silver proof versions since 1992, available only in Silver Proof Sets.

How much is a 1964 Kennedy half dollar worth?

A circulated 1964 Kennedy half dollar is worth $28 to $30, based primarily on its silver melt value at current prices (approximately $28.83 in silver content as of April 2026). Uncirculated examples in MS-65 condition sell for $65 to $150, and superb gems graded MS-67 can bring $2,500 to $5,000 or more.

Are Kennedy half dollars still being made?

Yes, the U.S. Mint strikes Kennedy half dollars every year for inclusion in collector sets such as Mint Sets, Proof Sets, and Silver Proof Sets. Production for general circulation stopped in 2002. You can still find Kennedy halves at banks by requesting them, though they are not commonly seen in everyday change.

What is the rarest Kennedy half dollar?

Among regular-issue coins, the 1970-D (mintage: 2,150,000, available only in Mint Sets) and the 1998-S Matte Proof (mintage: approximately 62,000) are the scarcest. The rarest Kennedy half dollar overall is the 1964 SMS Special Strike prototype, which sold for $47,000 in 2016.

Should I clean my Kennedy half dollars before selling them?

No. Cleaning coins is one of the fastest ways to destroy their collector value. Collectors and dealers prefer original surfaces with natural toning. A cleaned coin will be graded “Details” by PCGS or NGC, which reduces its market value by 30% to 70% compared to an uncleaned example in the same condition.

Where is the mint mark on a Kennedy half dollar?

On 1964 Kennedy half dollars, the mint mark appears on the reverse below the eagle’s left claw, near the wreath. From 1968 onward, the mint mark moved to the obverse, just below the truncation of Kennedy’s bust above the date. Coins from 1965 to 1967 carry no mint mark at all.

Selling to a Trusted Local Coin Dealer

The Benefits of an Expert Appraisal

When you’re ready to sell your Kennedy half dollars, working with a trusted local coin dealer is one of the best routes you can take. While online marketplaces have their place, nothing beats a face-to-face evaluation for ensuring you get a fair price. An experienced numismatist can spot subtle varieties, high-grade conditions, and rare errors that are easily overlooked in a photo, maximizing your payout. At PGS Gold & Coin, we provide this hands-on assessment at all our Chicagoland locations. The process is transparent, and you get the major benefit of walking out with immediate payment, avoiding the uncertainty and delays of online sales.

Getting an expert opinion is crucial, especially if you suspect you have a key date or a high-quality coin. Our team at PGS Gold & Coin includes certified numismatists who are authorized dealers for major grading services like PCGS and NGC. This means we can accurately assess your Kennedy halves and make a competitive offer based on real-time market values. If you think you have something special, like a 1970-D or a 1964 Accented Hair proof, we encourage you to bring it in for a free evaluation. There’s no pressure to sell, just an honest assessment so you know exactly what you have. This peace of mind is invaluable, whether you’re a seasoned collector or selling an inherited collection for the first time.

Key Takeaways

  • Know your silver years: A Kennedy half dollar’s value starts with its metal content. Coins dated 1964 are 90% silver, while those from 1965 through 1970 are 40% silver. Any of these dates have a significant base value from their silver alone, which you can spot by checking for a solid silver-colored edge.
  • Key dates and condition are crucial: A coin’s value can go far beyond its silver. Specific dates, mint marks, and pristine condition can turn a common coin into a valuable collectible. Look for key dates like the 1970-D or unique varieties, as these are what collectors pay a premium for.
  • Handle with care and consult a pro: To protect your coin’s value, avoid cleaning it under any circumstances, as this can cause permanent damage and reduce its worth. For an accurate understanding of what you have, especially for rare or high-grade coins, a professional appraisal is your best next step.

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