In October 2024, a single 1964 Kennedy half dollar graded MS68+ by PCGS sold for a jaw-dropping $5,904,000 at Heritage Auctions. Yes, you read that right – nearly six million dollars for a 50-cent coin introduced just months after President Kennedy’s assassination.
The History Behind the Kennedy Half Dollar
Minted starting in 1964, the Kennedy half dollar replaced the Franklin half dollar within weeks of JFK’s death. The first year was struck in 90% silver, sparking massive public hoarding. Over 430 million were made in 1964 alone, but almost none entered circulation because people saved them as keepsakes.
Why One Just Sold for $5.9 Million
The record-breaker was an ultra-high-grade “Special Mint Set” quality example with pristine surfaces, full bell lines on the reverse, and incredible eye appeal. Only a handful exist in MS68 or better – making it literally one of the finest known survivors.
Which Rare Kennedy Half Dollars Are Still in Circulation?
Believe it or not, a few big-money varieties can still turn up:
- 1964 Proof Accented Hair (worth $5,000–$50,000+)
- 1970-S minted on 1941 silver planchet (only 2-3 known, $20,000+)
- 1966 SMS No FG (missing designer initials, $3,000–$15,000)
- 1971-D DDO or Friendly Eagle varieties ($500–$5,000)
Top 5 Most Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars Ever Sold
| Rank | Year | Variety/Grade | Sale Price | Date Sold |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1964 | MS68+ SMS | $5,904,000 | Oct 2024 |
| 2 | 1964 | PR70 DCAM Accented | $108,000 | 2023 |
| 3 | 1970-S | On 1941 Planchet | $138,000 | 2021 |
| 4 | 1966 | SMS No FG MS68 | $47,000 | 2022 |
| 5 | 1964 | Proof Accented Hair | $42,000 | 2024 |
How to Spot a Valuable Kennedy Half Dollar in Your Change
Look for:
- 1964 date with strong “Accented Hair” above the ear
- 1970-S (very few were released)
- Missing designer initials “FG” on reverse
- Double die obverse or reverse details
- Coins struck on wrong planchets (silver color on 1971+ dates)
Expert Tips for Hunting Rare Kennedy Half Dollars Today
- Check every roll from the bank – errors still surface!
- Buy $100–$500 face-value bags of half dollars and search slowly
- Use a 10x loupe to check for doubled lettering and missing initials
- Focus on 1964–1970 silver issues and 1971–1980s for errors
- Get anything promising graded – it can 10x the value
Kennedy Half Dollar Value Comparison (Average Retail)
| Year Range | Composition | Common Circulated | Top Grade (MS67+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | 90% silver | $10–$12 | $5,000,000+ |
| 1965–1970 | 40% silver | $4–$6 | $500–$15,000 |
| 1971–date | Copper-nickel | Face value | $50–$50,000 (errors) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Kennedy half dollars still made today?
A: Yes! The U.S. Mint still strikes them for collectors, but almost none circulate.
Q: Can I still find silver Kennedy halves in circulation?
A: Extremely rare now, but 40% silver 1965–1969 coins still pop up occasionally.
Q: Where is the best place to sell a rare Kennedy half dollar?
A: Major auction houses like Heritage, Stack’s Bowers, or GreatCollections.
Final Thoughts – Start Looking Today!
That $5.9 million Kennedy half dollar proves that mind-blowing treasures are still out there – and some of the runner-up rarities can absolutely turn up in everyday change or old jars. Grab a handful of half dollars this weekend, flip them over, and who knows… your next coffee change could contain a five- or six-figure surprise. Happy hunting, and let me know in the comments if you ever find a keeper! 🔍🪙