17 Rare Kennedy Half Dollars: The Kennedy half dollar was first minted in 1964, just months after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Designed by Gilroy Roberts and Frank Gasparro, the coin quickly became a symbol of national mourning and respect. Its obverse features Kennedy’s portrait, while the reverse shows the presidential seal. Although billions have been produced, certain rare varieties and minting errors have made some Kennedy half dollars highly valuable in today’s market.
Why Some Kennedy Half Dollars Are Valuable
Most Kennedy half dollars are common and worth only face value, but several factors can elevate their value dramatically:
- Low mintage numbers: Coins produced in smaller quantities are harder to find.
- Minting errors: Mistakes such as doubled dies, off-center strikes, or wrong planchet coins create unique varieties.
- Condition and grading: Coins preserved in Mint State or Proof grades are worth exponentially more.
- Silver content: Early issues from 1964 and special collector editions contain silver, adding intrinsic value.
- Historical significance: Transitional designs and commemorative issues attract strong demand.
17 Rare Kennedy Half Dollars Worth Collecting
- 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver) – First-year issue, highly prized in Mint State.
- 1964 Accented Hair Proof – Distinctive design variety, valued in the thousands.
- 1966 SMS (Special Mint Set) Half Dollar – Rare finish, highly collectible.
- 1967 SMS Half Dollar – Another special mint set issue, prized by advanced collectors.
- 1970-D Half Dollar – Low mintage, available only in mint sets, worth hundreds.
- 1971-D Doubled Die Obverse – Error variety with noticeable doubling.
- 1972-D No FG Half Dollar – Missing designer initials on the reverse, rare and valuable.
- 1974-D Doubled Die Obverse – Famous doubled die variety, worth thousands.
- 1979-S Type 2 Proof Half Dollar – Distinctive mintmark style, highly collectible.
- 1981-S Type 2 Proof Half Dollar – Another mintmark variety, valued in high grades.
- 1998-S Matte Finish Half Dollar – Special collector issue, scarce and valuable.
- 2001-S Proof Silver Half Dollar – Low mintage proof issue, prized by collectors.
- 2014-W Gold Kennedy Half Dollar – Struck in gold for the 50th anniversary, worth thousands.
- 1965 SMS Half Dollar – Rare transitional issue, highly collectible.
- 1968-S Proof Silver Half Dollar – Early proof issue with silver content.
- 1973-S Proof Silver Half Dollar – Low mintage proof issue, valued in high grades.
- 1979-P Wide Rim Half Dollar – Distinctive variety, prized by specialists.
Price Trends in 2026
By 2026, Kennedy half dollars have shown steady growth in value. Early silver issues and rare proof varieties continue to rise, while error coins command strong premiums at auction. Online marketplaces have expanded access, but professional certification remains essential for high-value transactions. Collectors are especially focused on pristine examples, with Mint State and Proof coins achieving record-breaking prices.
Collector Insights
For collectors, Kennedy half dollars offer both affordability and opportunity:
- Beginners can assemble complete sets at modest cost.
- Advanced collectors can pursue rare varieties and high-grade proofs.
- Professional grading adds credibility and increases resale value.
- Silver and gold issues provide both numismatic and bullion appeal.
The Thrill of Discovery
Although most Kennedy half dollars are common, the possibility of finding a rare variety in old collections or inherited coin jars keeps the excitement alive. Their large size and bold design make them easy to spot, and the hunt for hidden treasures continues to inspire collectors in 2026.
Conclusion
The Kennedy half dollar is more than just a coin. It is a symbol of American history, artistry, and in rare cases, extraordinary value. From the 1964 silver issues to the 2014 gold commemoratives, these coins prove that even modern currency can hold hidden treasures. In 2026, collectors remain captivated by the pursuit of these 17 rare varieties, proving that the Kennedy half dollar is still a coin worth collecting.
