Kennedy Half Dollar

Country of Origin: United States of America

Year of Issue: 1971 to Present (based on common cupronickel appearance)

Denomination: Half Dollar ($0.50)

Composition: Copper-nickel clad copper (Outer layers of 75% copper, 25% nickel; Inner core of 100% copper)

Kennedy Half Dollar

Brief Description

The reverse (shown) features the Presidential Seal: a heraldic eagle holding an olive branch and a bundle of 13 arrows, surrounded by a ring of 50 stars. The obverse features the profile of President John F. Kennedy.

Historical Significance

The Kennedy Half Dollar was first minted in 1964 as a memorial to the assassinated President John F. Kennedy. It replaced the Franklin Half Dollar. While initially popular, this coin led to the decline of half dollars in general circulation due to hoarding by collectors and the public.

Estimated Value

$0.50 - $1.00 (Circulated specimens from post-1970 are generally worth face value; uncirculated or rare mint marks may carry a small premium).

Care Instructions

Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid cleaning or polishing the coin, as this can create microscopic scratches that significantly reduce its numismatic value. Handle by the edges to prevent oils from skin transferring to the coin surface.

Created At: 2026-02-06T02:55:51.730170