Kennedy Half Dollar

United States · 1964

A classic American silver coin featuring the portrait of John F. Kennedy on the obverse and the Presidential Seal on the reverse.

Country: United States
Year: 1964
Denomination: Half Dollar (50 Cents)
Metal: 90% Silver, 10% Copper

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 June 13, 2026More united states coins →

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Overview

A classic American silver coin featuring the portrait of John F. Kennedy on the obverse and the Presidential Seal on the reverse.

Historical significance

Introduced shortly after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963. The 1964 issue is the only year of the Kennedy Half Dollar produced for circulation in 90% silver.

Obverse (front)

Left-facing portrait of John F. Kennedy. Legends: 'LIBERTY' around the top, 'IN GOD WE TRUST' across the bust, and the date '1964' at the bottom. Designer: Gilroy Roberts.

Reverse (back)

Modified Presidential Seal featuring an eagle holding an olive branch and arrows. Legends: 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'HALF DOLLAR', and 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'. Designer: Frank Gasparro.

Estimated value

$10 - $12 for circulated examples (based on silver spot price); $15 - $35+ for high-grade Mint State examples.

What drives this coin's value

Silver spot price is the primary driver for circulated 1964 halves. For collectors, the lack of heavy contact marks (bag marks) and original mint luster determine higher values.

Grade assessment

Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated (apparent based on slight blur/wear on high points).

Mintage & rarity

High mintage (approx. 273 million for Philadelphia and 156 million for Denver); Very common, but highly sought after for silver content.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for the distinct 'ring' of silver when tapped lightly (not recommended for rare coins) and verify the 1964 date. Ensure the 'D' mint mark (if present) is not glued on.

Notable varieties & errors

The 'Accented Hair' variety (found only on proof strikes) is a major variety for this year, featuring extra hair detail above Kennedy's ear. Double die obverse/reverse errors also exist.

Similar coins

Kennedy Half Dollars from 1965-1970 (which are 40% silver) and those from 1971-present (which are copper-nickel clad and have no silver).

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges only to avoid fingerprint oils. Do not clean or polish, as this significantly reduces numismatic value. Store in an acid-free holder or flip.