The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar holds a special place in American numismatic history. Introduced shortly after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, this coin has become a cherished collector’s item.
While many of these coins are common, certain rare varieties have fetched astonishing prices at auctions, with some selling for nearly $200,000. Could your 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar be among these valuable treasures?
A Brief History of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
In the wake of President Kennedy’s assassination on November 22, 1963, the U.S. Mint swiftly moved to honor him by redesigning the half dollar. The first Kennedy Half Dollars were minted in 1964, replacing the Franklin Half Dollar. These coins were composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, making them particularly desirable to collectors and investors alike.
Key Factors That Determine Value
While the majority of 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are valued based on their silver content, certain factors can significantly increase their worth:
- Mint Marks and Production Numbers:
- Philadelphia Mint (No Mint Mark): Approximately 273 million coins produced.
- Denver Mint (“D” Mint Mark): Around 156 million coins produced.
- Condition (Grade):
- Circulated Coins: Typically valued around $10 to $20, depending on the current silver market.
- Uncirculated Coins: Coins in mint state can range from $20 to several hundred dollars.
- Proof Coins: Specially minted for collectors, these can fetch higher prices, especially in pristine condition.
- Rare Varieties and Errors:
- Accented Hair Variety: Early proof coins with extra hair details, often valued between $50 and $3,750, depending on condition.
- Special Mint Set (SMS) Coins: Extremely rare, with some fetching over $200,000 at auctions.
- Doubled Die and Repunched Mint Mark Errors: These minting errors can increase a coin’s value, sometimes significantly.
Notable Auction Sales
The allure of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is evident in recent auction results:
- 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar: One of the most expensive, valued at over $400,000 in 2024, due to its extreme rarity and unique finish.
- 1964 Accented Hair Proof: Depending on the condition, these coins have fetched prices ranging from $50 to $45,000.
Identifying Valuable 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars
To determine if your coin is among the valuable ones, consider the following steps:
- Examine the Coin’s Features:
- Mint Mark: Located on the reverse side, to the left of the olive branch.
- Hair Details: The Accented Hair variety has additional hair strands above Kennedy’s ear.
- Assess the Coin’s Condition:
- Wear and Tear: Minimal wear indicates a higher grade.
- Luster: A shiny, unblemished surface suggests an uncirculated coin.
- Seek Professional Grading:
- Certification: Organizations like PCGS or NGC can provide an official grade, enhancing the coin’s value.
Value Ranges for 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars
| Coin Type | Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Strike (No Mint Mark) | Circulated | $10 – $20 |
| Regular Strike (No Mint Mark) | Uncirculated | $20 – $4,650 |
| Regular Strike (Denver Mint) | Circulated | $10 – $22 |
| Regular Strike (Denver Mint) | Uncirculated | $16 – $26,500 |
| Proof Coin | Proof Condition | $11 – $2,800 |
| Accented Hair Proof | Proof Condition | $30 – $950 |
| SMS Coin | Uncirculated | $16,500 – $200,000 |
Values are approximate and can vary based on the coin’s grade and the current market.
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is more than just a piece of currency; it’s a tangible piece of American history. While many of these coins are common, certain rare varieties and exceptional conditions can command impressive prices. If you believe your 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar possesses unique features or is in exceptional condition, consulting with a professional numismatist or coin grading service could reveal its true value.
FAQs
What makes the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar valuable?
Factors include mint mark, condition, rarity of the variety (e.g., Accented Hair, SMS), and minting errors.
How can I identify the Accented Hair variety?
Look for additional hair strands above Kennedy’s ear and a missing serif on the “I” in “LIBERTY.”
What is an SMS coin?
SMS stands for Special Mint Set, a limited production with a unique finish, making them extremely rare and valuable.
