Kennedy Half Dollars (1964-Date)

Kennedy Half Dollars (1964-Date)

The Kennedy Half Dollar was first issued in 1964, just months after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The coin was authorized quickly by Congress as a way to honor the fallen leader, replacing the Franklin Half Dollar design. Its obverse was designed by Gilroy Roberts (Chief Engraver at the U.S. Mint), featuring a profile portrait of Kennedy, while the reverse by Frank Gasparro depicts the Presidential Seal.

Composition and Design Changes

• 1964: First year, struck in 90% silver. Hugely popular; millions were hoarded and rarely circulated.

• 1965–1970: Reduced to 40% silver due to rising bullion prices. Still collected heavily, with the 1970-D available only in Mint Sets.

• 1971–Present: Regular issues changed to copper-nickel clad, though special silver versions have been struck for collectors.

• 1975–1976 (Bicentennial): All halves dated “1776–1976” and feature a special Independence Hall reverse by Seth G. Huntington.

• 1992–Present: Proof and silver collector issues in 90% silver were reintroduced.

Why Collectors Value It

Kennedy Half Dollars hold immense historical significance, created in the wake of national tragedy. For collectors, the series offers both affordability in common dates and genuine challenge in rarities and condition. With over half a century of production, it remains an active series with ongoing interest among both U.S. coinage enthusiasts and those drawn to Kennedy memorabilia.

Key Dates and Rarities

• 1964 Accented Hair Proof: An early variety with sharper hair detail on Kennedy; scarce and desirable.

• 1970-D: The last 40% silver circulation strike, issued only in Mint Sets; a key modern rarity.

• 1975–1976 Bicentennial Proof and Silver Issues: Widely collected and popular among type collectors.

• 1998-S Matte Proof: Issued only in a special commemorative set; one of the lowest-mintage modern half dollars.

• 2014 50th Anniversary Issues: Struck in multiple finishes and metals (silver, gold, and clad); limited mintage collectible sets.

The Kennedy Half Dollar appeals to a wide range of collectors. Beginners enjoy affordable common dates, while specialists pursue varieties, proofs, silver issues, and high-grade examples. Many collectors build type sets to include the 90% silver (1964), 40% silver (1965–1970), clad, and Bicentennial issues, while advanced collectors chase the scarcer modern rarities.