If you’ve got a jar of old coins at home, it might be time to take a closer look—especially if it contains any Kennedy half dollars. While many people think of these coins as just spare change, some rare versions are actually worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. That’s right, a simple 50-cent coin could turn out to be a hidden treasure.
The Kennedy half dollar was first released in 1964, shortly after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. It quickly became a collector’s item due to its emotional value and limited mintage. Even today, it remains one of the most popular coins among collectors. But not all Kennedy half dollars are the same, and a few rare types are extremely valuable.
What Makes These Coins So Valuable?
The value of a Kennedy half dollar depends on several key factors including the year it was made, the condition it’s in, and whether there are any unique minting errors. The rarest and most valuable are the 1964 versions made of 90% silver. These were only produced for one year, making them highly sought after.
Some coins from the Denver Mint with a special strike pattern or double die errors have fetched eye-popping amounts at auctions. One 1964 Kennedy half dollar reportedly sold for more than $600,000 due to its pristine condition and rare production details. Even coins that aren’t in perfect condition can still sell for hundreds or even thousands if they have unique features.
What to Look For in Your Coins
Before you rush to the coin shop, here are a few things you should look out for in your Kennedy half dollar:
- Check the year: 1964 is the most valuable because it’s made from 90% silver
- Look for mint marks: Coins with “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) can have special value
- Examine the surface: Errors like double dies, off-center strikes, or missing features increase value
- Condition matters: The better the shape, the more it’s worth
- Proof coins: These shiny, detailed coins made for collectors can be worth a lot more
Quick Comparison of Common vs Rare Coins
| Year | Silver Content | Special Feature | Approx. Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | 90% | Mint Errors/Proof Strike | Up to $600,000+ |
| 1965–1970 | 40% | Some with rare errors | $5 – $1000+ |
| Post-1971 | None | Only Proofs or Errors | Face value – $100+ |
Where Can You Sell Them?
If you think you have a valuable Kennedy half dollar, don’t take it to the nearest vending machine. Instead, consider getting it appraised by a trusted coin dealer or sending it to a coin grading service like PCGS or NGC. These services can confirm its condition and authenticity, which will help you get a better price if you decide to sell.
Auction houses and online platforms like eBay also host active coin markets. Be careful though—there are plenty of scams online, so always verify the buyer or seller before making a deal.
Final Thoughts
Your old Kennedy half dollar might be more than just pocket change. With a little research and some luck, you could be holding a coin that’s worth thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. So before you spend it, take a good look—you might just be carrying a small piece of American history and a big piece of hidden wealth.