Kennedy Half Dollar

United States of America · 1994

A standard circulation strike United States half dollar featuring the profile of John F. Kennedy.

Country: United States of America
Year: 1994
Denomination: Half Dollar ($0.50)
Metal: Outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel, bonded to a pure copper core

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 25, 2026More united states of america coins →

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Overview

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.

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.

Estimated value

$0.50-$1.00 in circulated condition; $2.00-$10.00 in high-grade Mint State (MS-65+)

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.

Grade assessment

About Uncirculated to Mint State (AU/MS). The coin shows high luster and sharp details, with only minor surface contact marks visible.

Mintage & rarity

Total mintage of 23,828,110 (Philadelphia). This is a common date for the series.

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.

Similar coins

1964 90% silver Kennedy halves and 1965-1970 40% silver clad halves, which are distinguished by their edge color and weight.

Care & preservation

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.