Since its introduction in 1964, the Kennedy Half Dollar has become one of the most collected U.S. coins. While millions were minted, a small number of rare varieties, low-mintage issues, and error coins have become legendary—often selling for thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars.
This guide reveals the 11 rare Kennedy Half Dollars every collector dreams of finding, why they’re valuable, and how to identify them.
Why Kennedy Half Dollars Are So Popular
- Introduced shortly after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination
- Early issues contain silver
- Many were hoarded and never circulated
- Several rare varieties and errors exist
Together, these factors make Kennedy halves a cornerstone of modern U.S. coin collecting.
The 11 Rare Kennedy Half Dollars Collectors Want Most
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar – Accented Hair Proof
Why It’s Rare
Early proof dies featured heavier hair details above Kennedy’s ear, later modified by the Mint.
Estimated Value:
👉 $2,000 – $20,000+
2. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar – 90% Silver (High Grade)
The first year of issue was struck in 90% silver. High-grade mint state examples are extremely scarce.
Estimated Value:
👉 $50 – $15,000+
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
Not Released for Circulation
This coin was struck in 40% silver but only included in mint sets.
Estimated Value:
👉 $30 – $7,500+
4. 1966 Kennedy Half Dollar – SMS (Special Mint Set)
Transitional Coin Rarity
Produced during a time when the Mint suspended proof coinage.
Estimated Value:
👉 $200 – $10,000+
5. 1967 Kennedy Half Dollar – SMS With Deep Cameo
Ultra-contrast surfaces make these coins especially valuable.
Estimated Value:
👉 $500 – $9,000+
6. 1998-S Kennedy Half Dollar – Matte Proof
Modern Legendary Rarity
Issued only in a special collector set with very low mintage.
Estimated Value:
👉 $4,000 – $20,000+
7. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar – Doubled Die Obverse
Visible doubling on:
- “LIBERTY”
- “IN GOD WE TRUST”
Estimated Value:
👉 $1,000 – $12,000+
8. 1971-S Kennedy Half Dollar – No “S” Proof
Major Mint Error
Proof coin missing its mint mark.
Estimated Value:
👉 $20,000 – $85,000+
9. 1968-S Kennedy Half Dollar – No “S” Proof
Another famous mint error from the San Francisco Mint.
Estimated Value:
👉 $15,000 – $50,000+
10. Kennedy Half Dollar Struck on the Wrong Planchet
Examples struck on:
- Quarter planchets
- Foreign coin blanks
Estimated Value:
👉 $5,000 – $25,000+
11. High-Grade Full Strike Kennedy Half Dollars (MS67+)
Even common dates become rare when preserved in near-perfect condition.
Estimated Value:
👉 $500 – $30,000+
Quick Kennedy Half Dollar Value Chart
| Coin Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Common circulated | $0.50 – $5 |
| Silver issues (1964–1970) | $5 – $50 |
| Rare proofs & errors | $1,000 – $85,000+ |
How to Identify a Rare Kennedy Half Dollar
Collector Checklist
- Check the date and mint mark
- Inspect the edge for silver
- Look for doubling or missing mint marks
- Weigh the coin accurately
- Use magnification (10x)
- Never clean the coin
What to Do If You Find One
- Handle by the edges only
- Store in a protective holder
- Get professional grading (PCGS or NGC)
- Consult a reputable coin dealer
Certification dramatically increases resale value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Kennedy Half Dollars still worth collecting?
Yes. Rare varieties and high-grade coins continue to set auction records.
What is the rarest Kennedy Half Dollar?
The 1971-S No “S” Proof is considered one of the rarest and most valuable.
Are all 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars valuable?
All are silver, but value depends heavily on condition and variety.
Can valuable Kennedy Half Dollars still be found?
Yes—many are still discovered in old collections, drawers, and even circulation.
Should I clean my Kennedy Half Dollar?
Never. Cleaning can reduce value by 50% or more.
Final Thoughts
The 11 rare Kennedy Half Dollars listed here represent the holy grail finds for collectors. While most Kennedy halves are common, the right combination of date, mint mark, condition, and variety can transform an ordinary coin into a five-figure treasure.