The Kennedy Half Dollar, first minted in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, is a coin many people recognize. With his portrait on the front and an eagle on the back, these coins were made in huge numbers and are still found in change today. Most are worth just 50 cents, but some rare ones have sold for over $600,000 at auctions. Could one of these valuable coins be sitting in your coin jar or wallet right now?
Why Some Kennedy Half Dollars Are Worth a Fortune
Certain Kennedy Half Dollars are valuable because of mistakes made during minting or because they were made with special materials. For example, some 1964 coins were struck on 90% silver planchets meant for other coins, making them rare. Others have errors like doubled letters or off-center designs. One such coin, with a unique minting error, sold for $650,000 due to its rarity and condition. Collectors are eager to find these special coins, driving up their value.
How to Spot a Valuable Half Dollar
To find a high-value Kennedy Half Dollar, check a few key details. Look at the date; 1964 coins are more likely to be 90% silver. Weigh the coin; silver ones are heavier, about 12.5 grams, compared to 11.34 grams for later copper-nickel versions. Check the edge for a solid silver color instead of a copper stripe. Use a magnifying glass to spot errors, like doubled images or misaligned text. If you find a coin with these traits, do not clean it, as that can lower its worth.
| Feature to Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Weight | 90% silver coins weigh about 12.5 grams vs. 11.34 grams for copper-nickel |
| Edge | No copper stripe indicates a silver coin |
Where These Coins Are Found
Rare Kennedy Half Dollars can turn up in surprising places. One was found in a cash register at a small store, later valued at $600,000 because of a rare error and perfect condition. Others have been discovered in old coin collections, bank rolls, or even loose change from a vending machine. These stories inspire people to check their coins carefully. You do not need to be a collector to find one; just pay attention to the half dollars you come across.
| Where Found | Example Value |
|---|---|
| Cash Register | $600,000 |
| Coin Roll | Up to $200,000 |
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you have a rare Kennedy Half Dollar, take it to a trusted coin dealer or a coin show for an expert opinion. Getting it graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC can confirm its value. Coins in near-perfect condition, graded MS-67 or higher, can be worth thousands or more. Keep the coin in a safe place and avoid touching it too much to maintain its condition. A small flaw could reduce its value significantly.
The Kennedy Half Dollar is a piece of American history, created to remember a beloved president. While most are worth only their face value, a few rare ones could make you rich. Next time you get a half dollar in change or find one in a drawer, take a closer look. That 50-cent coin might be worth over $600,000. Start checking your coins today.
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