Obverse

Reverse

Half Dollar (50 Cents)

Kennedy Half Dollar (Proof)

United States of America · 1983

A Proof Kennedy Half Dollar featuring a cameo finish with frosted devices and mirrored fields, housed in a plastic lens.

Country: United States of America
Year: 1983
Denomination: Half Dollar (50 Cents)
Metal: Outer layers of 75% copper, 25% nickel; Inner core of pure copper
Grade: Proof (Appears to be a Gem Proof with Deep Cameo contrast)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified May 18, 2026More united states of america coins →

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Overview

A Proof Kennedy Half Dollar featuring a cameo finish with frosted devices and mirrored fields, housed in a plastic lens.

Historical significance

The Kennedy Half Dollar was first minted in 1964 as a memorial to the assassinated President John F. Kennedy. By 1983, these were produced primarily for collectors in proof sets.

Obverse (front)

Left-facing portrait of John F. Kennedy. Motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST' and 'LIBERTY' around the perimeter. Date '1983' at bottom with 'S' mint mark. Designer: Gilroy Roberts.

Reverse (back)

The Presidential Seal: a heraldic eagle with a shield, holding an olive branch and arrows, surrounded by 50 stars. 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'HALF DOLLAR' around the edge. Designer: Frank Gasparro.

Estimated value

$3-$7 in PR-67 to PR-69 Deep Cameo condition; slightly more if part of a full original 1983 S Proof Set.

What drives this coin's value

Condition (scratches on mirrors), degree of cameo contrast, and whether it is housed in its original government packaging.

Grade assessment

Proof (Appears to be a Gem Proof with Deep Cameo contrast)

Mintage & rarity

3,279,126 (Common for proof issues)

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for the distinct 'S' mint mark and the high-relief, mirror-like finish characteristic of US Mint proof products. Counterfeits of this date are extremely rare.

Notable varieties & errors

No major rare varieties; collectors look for 'Deep Cameo' (DCAM) designations where the contrast between fields and devices is maximized.

Similar coins

Circulating 1983 Kennedy Half Dollars (no mint mark or 'P'/'D') which lack the mirrored proof finish.

Care & preservation

Do not remove from the plastic holder. Proof surfaces are extremely sensitive to fingerprints (which cause permanent damage) and physical hair-line scratches.

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