The Kennedy Half Dollar, first introduced in 1964, holds a special place in American history and coin collecting. These coins were created to honor the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy after his tragic assassination. Over time, the Kennedy Half Dollar has become a popular item among coin enthusiasts, with certain versions gaining remarkable value. Some of these rare coins have sold for over $250,000 at auctions, making them highly coveted by collectors. In this article, we’ll explore six Kennedy Half Dollars that you should look for if you’re a coin collector or investor.
1. 1964 Accented Hair Variety
One of the most sought-after Kennedy Half Dollars is the 1964 Accented Hair variety. This coin features a unique design where the lines in Kennedy’s hair are more pronounced compared to other versions. This variation happened because of an early die issue during the coin’s production. However, after a short time, the design was updated and the Accented Hair version was discontinued. Because of its limited release, this coin is now extremely rare and valuable. Some collectors have paid over $250,000 for a single 1964 Accented Hair Half Dollar.
2. 1966 SMS No FG
Another rare and highly valuable Kennedy Half Dollar is the 1966 Special Mint Set (SMS) No FG. What makes this coin so special is the absence of the designer’s initials, “FG,” near the eagle’s tail feathers on the reverse side. This error happened during the minting process when the die was polished, removing the initials. Coins with this mistake are among the most coveted in the world of coin collecting, with some selling for over $270,000. The 1966 SMS No FG is a true collector’s gem.
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is another highly valuable coin that every collector should look out for. Unlike most other coins in the Kennedy series, the 1970-D was only available in limited quantities, distributed through special mint sets. Due to its limited availability, the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is now considered a key date in the series. As a result, collectors are willing to pay up to $275,000 for this particular coin, making it one of the most expensive in the collection.
4. 1974-D Double Die Obverse
The 1974-D Double Die Obverse is a unique error coin that features a noticeable doubling effect in the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the front (obverse) side. This error occurred during the minting process, when the coin die was misaligned, causing the details to be struck twice. The effect is striking, and collectors value these coins highly because of the rarity of such errors. The 1974-D Double Die Obverse Kennedy Half Dollar can fetch around $260,000 or more at auction.
5. 1998-S Matte Finish
Issued as part of a collector’s set, the 1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar is a coin that stands out because of its distinctive, non-shiny appearance. Unlike the typical glossy finish seen on most coins, the matte finish on the 1998-S gives it a unique look and feel. Due to its limited mintage and special finish, this coin has become highly sought after by collectors. Some collectors have paid over $280,000 for a 1998-S Matte Finish Half Dollar.
6. 2014-W Gold Kennedy Half Dollar
The 2014-W Gold Kennedy Half Dollar was released to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Kennedy Half Dollar series. What makes this coin particularly special is that it was struck in 99.99% pure gold, which gives it both historical and material value. The coin was issued by the U.S. Mint in limited quantities, making it even rarer. As a result, the 2014-W Gold Kennedy Half Dollar is now worth around $300,000. Its combination of gold content and historical significance makes it a top choice for serious collectors.
Summary of Kennedy Half Dollars Worth Over $250,000
Here’s a quick look at the six Kennedy Half Dollars that are valued over $250,000, according to their unique features, rarity, and significance:
| Coin Name | Year | Mint Mark | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accented Hair Variety | 1964 | None | $250,000+ |
| SMS No FG | 1966 | None | $270,000+ |
| 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar | 1970 | Denver | $275,000+ |
| Double Die Obverse | 1974 | Denver | $260,000+ |
| Matte Finish | 1998 | San Francisco | $280,000+ |
| Gold Half Dollar | 2014 | West Point | $300,000+ |
Conclusion: Why Kennedy Half Dollars Are Worth Your Attention
The Kennedy Half Dollar series is a fascinating collection of coins that not only carry historical significance but also offer incredible opportunities for collectors and investors. Whether you are drawn to these coins for their unique errors, limited mintage, or shiny gold versions, they represent some of the most valuable coins in the world today. Each of the six coins highlighted here—ranging from the 1964 Accented Hair to the 2014-W Gold Half Dollar—showcases what makes the Kennedy Half Dollar so appealing to coin enthusiasts. If you happen to come across one of these rare coins, it could be your ticket to owning a piece of American history and potentially earning a fortune.
Guilderland Historical Society
FAQs
What is the Kennedy Half Dollar?
The Kennedy Half Dollar is a U.S. coin introduced in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy.
Why are some Kennedy Half Dollars worth so much?
Some Kennedy Half Dollars are rare due to minting errors, limited production, or unique features.
Are there any common Kennedy Half Dollars worth over $250,000?
Yes, certain rare coins like the 1970-D and 1974-D Double Die can be worth more than $250,000.