Kennedy Half Dollar

Country of Origin: United States

Year of Issue: 1971

Denomination: 50 Cents (Half Dollar)

Composition: Copper-nickel clad (75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper core)

Kennedy Half Dollar

Brief Description

The obverse of the coin features a profile portrait of President John F. Kennedy, facing left. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed above his head along the rim, and "IN GOD WE TRUST" is below his chin, with the mint year "1971" at the bottom.

Historical Significance

The Kennedy Half Dollar was first issued in 1964, shortly after President John F. Kennedy's assassination, as a memorial to him. The 1971 issue marked a significant change in composition; prior to 1971, half dollars contained silver (90% silver in 1964, and 40% silver from 1965-1970). The 1971 coin was the first to be made entirely of copper-nickel clad, signifying the complete removal of silver from circulating US coinage.

Estimated Value

The estimated value of a 1971 Kennedy Half Dollar is typically its face value (50 cents) if in circulated condition. Uncirculated coins might fetch slightly more, generally in the range of $1 to $5, depending on their grade and mint mark (if present).

Care Instructions

To maintain the coin's condition, handle it by its edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin. Store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in a non-PVC coin holder or album. Avoid cleaning the coin, as this can often decrease its numismatic value.

Created At: 2025-11-08T19:10:54.698711