Rare Kennedy Half Dollars That Could Be Worth Thousands – Check Your Collection Now!

The Kennedy half dollar, first minted in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, remains one of the most recognizable and collected coins in the United States.

While millions of these coins were produced over the years, certain rare varieties and errors have become highly valuable, with some specimens selling for thousands of dollars at auction.

If you have Kennedy half dollars in your collection, here are the most valuable and rarest versions that could be worth a small fortune.

1. 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half Dollar – $156,000

• Why It’s Valuable: In 1964, the U.S. Mint struck a limited number of Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy half dollars with an unusual satiny finish. These coins were not regular proof issues but had a unique strike quality with smooth, mirror-like surfaces.
• How to Identify: Stronger design details, sharper rims, and no mint mark.
• Record Sale: One of the finest known examples graded SP68 sold for $156,000 at a Stack’s Bowers auction.

2. 1964 “Accented Hair” Proof Kennedy Half Dollar – Up to $20,000

• Why It’s Valuable: The earliest 1964 proof Kennedy half dollars featured a slightly different hair design on Kennedy’s portrait, known as the “Accented Hair” variety. This design was quickly changed, making it rare.
• How to Identify: The hair above Kennedy’s ear has more pronounced lines.
• Value: Depending on the coin’s condition, prices range from $200 to $20,000.

3. 1972-D “No FG” Kennedy Half Dollar – Up to $2,500

• Why It’s Valuable: Some 1972-D Kennedy half dollars lack the “FG” initials (for designer Frank Gasparro) on the reverse. This error occurred due to over-polishing of the dies.
• How to Identify: The area near the eagle’s tail should lack the “FG” initials.
• Record Sale: A graded MS63 example sold for $2,485.

4. 1967 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half Dollar – $6,995

• Why It’s Valuable: The U.S. Mint did not issue proof sets in 1965-1967 but instead released Special Mint Sets (SMS) with high-quality finishes.
• How to Identify: SMS coins have frosted designs and smooth, mirror-like surfaces.
• Record Sale: A 1967 SMS Kennedy half dollar graded MS68 Ultra Deep Cameo sold for $6,995.

5. 1968-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar (Deep Cameo) – $21,600

• Why It’s Valuable: The 1968-S proof Kennedy half dollar, when found in a Deep Cameo finish, can be worth thousands.
• How to Identify: Mirror-like background with frosted details on Kennedy’s profile.
• Record Sale: A PR70 Deep Cameo example sold for $21,600.

6. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar – Up to $7,000

• Why It’s Valuable: This was the last Kennedy half dollar struck in 40% silver, making it highly sought after.
• How to Identify: Features a “D” mintmark below Kennedy’s portrait.
• Value: Can range from $35 in circulated condition to over $7,000 in mint state.

7. 1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar – Up to $5,000

• Why It’s Valuable: Issued only in a special two-coin set with the Robert F. Kennedy commemorative dollar.
• How to Identify: A matte-like texture, different from standard proof coins.
• Value: High-grade examples can sell for over $5,000.

8. 1982-P No Mint Mark Kennedy Half Dollar – $1,000+

• Why It’s Valuable: A small number of 1982 Kennedy half dollars were struck without a mint mark due to a production error.
• How to Identify: No mintmark below Kennedy’s bust.
• Value: Can be worth $250 to over $1,000.

How to Determine If Your Kennedy Half Dollar Is Valuable

If you think you might have a valuable Kennedy half dollar, here’s what you should do:

• Examine the coin closely – Look for rare features like missing initials, special finishes, or unique designs.
• Check the date and mintmark – Certain years and locations produce rarer coins.
• Weigh the coin – Earlier Kennedy half dollars contain 90% or 40% silver, making them more valuable.
• Look for special proof or SMS versions – These often have higher value than circulation coins.
• Get it professionally graded – PCGS or NGC can authenticate your coin and determine its market value.
• Sell through reputable auctions – Rare Kennedy half dollars fetch the best prices at Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers.

Final Thoughts: Do You Have a Hidden Treasure?

The Kennedy half dollar series is full of hidden gems, with some coins worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. If you have a collection, it’s worth taking a closer look—you might just discover a rare and valuable Kennedy half dollar.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.