Rare Kennedy Half Dollars Worth Collecting
The Kennedy Half Dollar series, first released in March 1964, holds a special place in American numismatics, honoring President John F. Kennedy after his tragic assassination on November 22, 1963. These silver coins are cherished not only for their historical significance but also for their intrinsic value. Over the years, some Kennedy Half Dollars have become highly valuable and sought after by collectors.
Let’s explore the 5 most valuable Kennedy Half Dollars and why they are considered rare treasures.
What Are the 5 Rarest Kennedy Half Dollars?
Though you might occasionally find silver Kennedy Half Dollars from banks, they’re scarce in everyday circulation. While some varieties are relatively common, others are exceptionally rare and command higher prices. Here are the top five rarest and most valuable Kennedy Half Dollars that go beyond their face value:
1. 1964 SP68 Special Mint Set
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar marks the first release of the series, coinciding with the discontinuation of 90% silver coin production due to the rising price of silver. What makes the 1964 SP68 Special Mint Set unique is that it wasn’t officially supposed to exist. Only a handful of these coins have been discovered, making them the scarcest non-error Kennedy half dollars ever minted.
These coins feature a smooth, satin-like finish with square, sharp edges, and they stand out for their non-reflective surfaces when compared to the proof coins of the time.
2. 1967 MS69 Special Mint Set
After a brief hiatus in 1965 due to public coin hoarding, the U.S. Mint resumed production with the 1967 Special Mint Set. Unlike other mintings, these sets were released without mint marks. Stored in hard cases to ensure better preservation, the 1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar contains 40% silver, making it one of the few remaining circulating denominations with silver content.
Collectors prize these coins, especially those with cameo or deep cameo contrast, for their stunning appearance and historical significance.
3. 1965 MS67 Special Mint Set
The 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar marks a turning point in U.S. coinage history. This was the first year that the U.S. Mint stopped producing 90% silver coins and instead introduced coins made of 40% silver. The Special Mint Sets of 1965 are particularly valued for their high-quality strikes and frosty, matte finishes. In MS67 condition, these coins are incredibly scarce and can fetch a high price at auction.
4. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is highly sought after due to its low mintage. Only a limited number of these coins were produced, exclusively for mint sets. As a result, they are rare in circulation and highly prized by collectors. The 1970-D is also notable for being the last Kennedy Half Dollar to contain silver, making it a key date in the series.
5. 1998-S Matte Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1998-S Matte Proof Kennedy Half Dollar stands out for its unique finish, as it was produced as part of a special commemorative set. This coin features a matte proof finish, which is different from the typical brilliant proof surfaces found on other coins in the series. Its low mintage of fewer than 65,000 coins adds to its desirability among collectors, making it one of the most valuable modern Kennedy half dollars.
FAQs
What makes the 1964 SP68 Kennedy Half Dollar special?
The 1964 SP68 is unique because it wasn’t intended to exist. Only a few examples have surfaced, making it one of the rarest Kennedy Half Dollars ever minted.
Why is the 1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar valuable?
The 1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar is notable for its high-quality strike and cameo contrast, as well as its silver content, which was a rarity for circulating coins at the time.
What makes the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar rare?
The 1970-D was produced in limited quantities for mint sets only and was the last Kennedy Half Dollar to contain silver, making it a key collectible.
Why is the 1998-S Matte Proof Kennedy Half Dollar valuable?
The 1998-S Matte Proof is prized for its unique finish and low mintage, making it one of the most valuable modern Kennedy Half Dollars.
Conclusion
The Kennedy Half Dollar series holds a special place in American numismatic history, not only as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy but also as a collection of valuable coins. From the rare 1964 SP68 Special Mint Set to the 1998-S Matte Proof, these coins represent both historical milestones and coveted treasures for collectors.