Kennedy Half Dollar

1964-Present • United States • 50¢

About This Coin

The Kennedy Half Dollar was introduced in 1964, shortly after President John F. Kennedy's assassination, as a lasting tribute to his legacy. It remains in production today, though rarely seen in circulation.

Specifications

Composition

90% Silver (1964); 40% Silver (1965-1970); Copper-Nickel Clad (1971-present)

Weight

12.5 grams (90% silver), 11.5 grams (40% silver), 11.34 grams (clad)

Diameter

30.6 mm

Edge

Reeded

Designer

Gilroy Roberts (obverse), Frank Gasparro (reverse)

Mintage

Varies widely by year

Estimated Values by Condition

Condition	Estimated Value
Poor (P)	$0.50 (clad), $5-7 (silver)
Good (G)	$0.50 (clad), $6-8 (silver)
Fine (F)	$0.50 (clad), $7-9 (silver)
Very Fine (VF)	$0.50-1 (clad), $8-10 (silver)
Extremely Fine (EF/XF)	$1-2 (clad), $10-15 (silver)
Uncirculated (MS)	$2-20 (clad), $15-100+ (silver)

* Values are estimates based on market data and may vary significantly based on specific condition, mint mark, and market demand.

Identification Tips

1964 Kennedy Halves are 90% silver and highly sought after. 1965-1970 are 40% silver with a visible silver edge band. 1971+ are clad with a copper stripe. The mint mark is on the obverse below Kennedy's neck (1968+) or on reverse near claw and olive branch (1964-1967).

Historical Context

Designed by Gilroy Roberts and Frank Gasparro, the Kennedy Half Dollar was rushed into production in 1964 as a memorial to President Kennedy, who was assassinated in November 1963. The immediate popularity led to mass hoarding of 1964 issues, all of which are 90% silver.

Notable Varieties

1964 Accented Hair
1968-S No FG
1974-D Doubled Die Obverse
1982 No FG

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Kennedy Half Dollars silver?

1964 Kennedy Halves are 90% silver and worth $8-20+ depending on silver prices. 1965-1970 are 40% silver worth $4-10+. 1971 to present are copper-nickel clad worth face value unless in exceptional condition.

Why are Kennedy Half Dollars so rare in circulation?

Kennedy Halves are rarely used in commerce due to their size and the decline of cash transactions. Most are immediately saved by collectors or converted to cash at banks. The mint produces them primarily for collectors.