Kennedy Bicentennial Half Dollar
Country of Origin: United States of America
Year of Issue: 1776-1976 (Dual Dated, struck in 1975-1976)
Denomination: 0.50 USD
Composition: Outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a pure copper core (Cupro-Nickel Clad)
Brief Description
A dual-dated half dollar featuring President John F. Kennedy on the obverse and Independence Hall on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Commemorates the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It is one of three coins (along with the quarter and dollar) that featured a special reverse design for the Bicentennial.
Estimated Value
$0.50-$2.00 in circulated condition; $5-$25 for high-grade uncirculated or proof specimens.
Care Instructions
Store in a PVC-free coin flip or holder. Do not clean or polish the coin, as this removes original surface luster and significantly reduces collector value.
Mint Mark
No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint)
Mintage & Rarity
Large mintage of approximately 234 million from the Philadelphia mint; very common.
Weight & Diameter
11.34 grams / 30.6 mm
Edge
Reeded
Apparent Grade
Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated. Visible surface marks and slight wear on highest points (hair and building details).
Obverse (Front)
Left-facing portrait of John F. Kennedy. Legends: LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the dual dates 1776-1976. Designer: Gilroy Roberts.
Reverse (Back)
Independence Hall in Philadelphia. Legends: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, 200 YEARS OF FREEDOM, INDEPENDENCE HALL, E PLURIBUS UNUM, HALF DOLLAR. Designer: Seth G. Huntington.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition/grade and presence of a mint mark (S-mint silver versions are more valuable). Circulation strikes in avg condition are worth face value.
Similar Coins
Standard Kennedy Half Dollars (with Eagle reverse) and the 40% Silver Bicentennial issues (look for silver edge).
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Counterfeits are rare due to low value; verify the weight and look for the copper 'sandwich' layer on the edge to confirm it is a clad issue.
Notable Varieties & Errors
The 1976-S 40% silver uncirculated and proof versions are the primary collector targets; check for 'S' mint mark.
Created At: 2026-05-25T03:06:58.075766