Kennedy Half Dollars (1964-Date)
Coin Specifications
| Years | Composition | Weight | Diameter | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | 90% silver, 10% copper | 12.50 g | 30.6 mm | Reeded |
| 1965–1970 | 40% silver (outer clad layer) | 11.50 g | 30.6 mm | Reeded |
| 1971–Present | Copper-nickel (75% Cu / 25% Ni) | 11.34 g | 30.6 mm | Reeded |
| Special Issues | 90% silver (Proof/Bullion only) | Varies | 30.6 mm | Reeded |
Obverse:
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Designer: Gilroy Roberts
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Design: Portrait of President John F. Kennedy
Reverse:
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Designer: Frank Gasparro
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Design: Modified Presidential Seal: heraldic eagle, olive branch, arrows
Key Dates & Varieties
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1964 (90% silver) – First year of issue, very high mintage.
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1964 Accented Hair Proof – Early proof with extra hair detail near JFK’s ear. Scarce and popular.
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1965–1970 – 40% silver coins only issued for circulation (1965–1969) and Mint Sets (1970).
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1970-D – Key low-mintage 40% silver coin (Mint Set only).
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Major Varieties & Errors
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1964 Accented Hair Proof
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1972-D Type 2 Reverse – Missing details on the Earth; rare and valuable.
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1974-D Double Die Obverse (DDO) – Visible doubling on “WE TRUST” and Kennedy’s eye.
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1979-S & 1981-S – Type 1 vs. Type 2 Mintmark (clear vs. filled “S”).
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1982 No “FG” – Missing designer initials near eagle’s tail feathers.
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1990 No “S” Proof – Very rare proof coin missing the “S” mintmark.
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2002–Present – Not issued for general circulation; found only in sets or direct from the U.S. Mint.