Kennedy Half Dollar
Country of Origin: United States of America
Year of Issue: 1994
Denomination: Half Dollar ($0.50)
Composition: Outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel, bonded to a pure copper core
Brief Description
A standard circulation strike United States half dollar featuring the profile of 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 just months after his death. By 1994, these were rarely seen in general circulation but remained a staple for collectors.
Estimated Value
$0.50-$1.00 in circulated condition; $2.00-$10.00 in high-grade Mint State (MS-65+)
Care Instructions
Do not clean or polish, as this destroys the numismatic value. Handle by the edges only to avoid leaving skin oils on the surface. Store in a PVC-free flip or capsule.
Mint Mark
P (Philadelphia Mint)
Mintage & Rarity
Total mintage of 23,828,110 (Philadelphia). This is a common date for the series.
Weight & Diameter
11.34 grams / 30.6 mm
Edge
reeded
Apparent Grade
About Uncirculated to Mint State (AU/MS). The coin shows high luster and sharp details, with only minor surface contact marks visible.
Obverse (Front)
Portrays a left-facing profile of John F. Kennedy with the inscriptions 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and the date '1994'. Designer: Gilroy Roberts.
Reverse (Back)
Based on the Presidential Seal, it features a heraldic eagle with a shield, holding an olive branch and arrows. Surrounding text includes 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'HALF DOLLAR'. Designer: Frank Gasparro.
What Drives This Coin's Value
The primary value factors for this date are the grade/condition (MS-67 or higher is rare) and the presence of any striking errors.
Similar Coins
1964 90% silver Kennedy halves and 1965-1970 40% silver clad halves, which are distinguished by their edge color and weight.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for a distinct copper stripe on the reeded edge to confirm copper-nickel clad composition. Weight should be exactly 11.34g. These are rarely counterfeited due to low value.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major popular varieties for this specific year, though collectors look for high-grade 'business strikes' with proof-like surfaces.
Created At: 2026-05-25T03:02:02.058016