Kennedy Half Dollar (Bicentennial Design)
Country of Origin: United States of America
Year of Issue: 1776-1976
Denomination: Half Dollar ($0.50)
Composition: Copper-Nickel Clad (75% Copper, 25% Nickel over a pure copper core)
Brief Description
A Bicentennial commemorative half dollar featuring the dual date 1776-1976 on the obverse and Independence Hall on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Issued to celebrate the 200th anniversary of American Independence, these coins were struck in 1975 and 1976. They replaced the standard Eagle reverse for this period and were part of a trio of Bicentennial coins along with the quarter and dollar.
Estimated Value
$0.50-$2.00 circulated, $5-$25 for high-grade Mint State or Proof specimens
Care Instructions
Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule. Avoid cleaning or polishing, as this removes the natural surface luster and significantly lowers numismatic value.
Mint Mark
Not clearly visible in photo, but would be located under the bust of Kennedy: 'D' (Denver), 'S' (San Francisco), or blank (Philadelphia).
Mintage & Rarity
Common; over 520 million were minted across the Philadelphia and Denver mints for circulation.
Weight & Diameter
11.34g, 30.61mm
Edge
Reeded
Apparent Grade
Circulated/About Uncirculated; the image is blurry but significant wear is not immediately obvious, though it lacks the sharp luster of a Mint State coin.
Obverse (Front)
Portrait of John F. Kennedy facing left. Above: 'LIBERTY'; below: '1776-1976'; to the right: 'IN GOD WE TRUST'.
Reverse (Back)
Independence Hall in Philadelphia. Legends include 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'HALF DOLLAR', and '200 YEARS OF FREEDOM'. Designed by Seth G. Huntington.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Most are only worth face value if circulated. Value increases for high-grade Uncirculated versions (MS65+), Silver Clad collector versions (S-mint), and specific die errors.
Similar Coins
Standard Kennedy Half Dollars (1964-present). Look for the '1776-1976' date and Independence Hall reverse to distinguish the Bicentennial issue.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for a copper-colored streak on the edge to confirm it is the standard clad version. Weigh the coin to ensure it matches the 11.34g specification.
Notable Varieties & Errors
40% Silver Clad 'S' mint proofs/uncirculated coins; doubled die obverse; 'No S' proof sets (extremely rare).
Created At: 2026-05-02T00:01:38.964345