The Kennedy half dollar, first minted in 1964, holds a significant place in American numismatic history. This coin, which replaced the Benjamin Franklin half dollar, was introduced just a few months after the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy. This article explores the history, changes in composition, design details, and the notable value of the Kennedy half dollar.
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Introduction of the Kennedy Half Dollar
In 1964, the United States Mint introduced the Kennedy half dollar, a tribute to the beloved President John F. Kennedy. The coin replaced the Benjamin Franklin half dollar and initially featured a composition of 90% silver and 10% copper. This change was part of the Mint’s effort to honor Kennedy’s legacy tangibly.
Changes in Metal Composition
The original 90% silver composition of the Kennedy half-dollar was altered due to a shortage of copper. From 1965 to 1970, the Mint produced half dollars with a core made of 79% copper and an outer layer of 80% silver and 20% copper. This modification was a practical response to the scarcity of materials at the time.
Starting in 1971, the composition of the Kennedy half dollar was adjusted once again. The coin’s core was changed to 75% silver and 25% copper, while the outer layer remained pure copper. These changes reflect the Mint’s ongoing efforts to balance material availability with the coin’s historical significance.
Design and Minting Locations
The design of the Kennedy half dollar has remained unchanged since its debut. The obverse features a portrait of President Kennedy facing left, created by sculptor Gilroy Roberts. On the reverse, a heraldic eagle holding an olive branch and a bundle of arrows symbolizes peace and strength.
Kennedy half dollars were minted in three locations: San Francisco, Denver, and Philadelphia. In 1964 alone, an impressive 156,205,446 Kennedy half dollars were produced. However, by 2002, production had been significantly reduced, focusing primarily on collector coins.
Special Editions and Notable Variants
Several special editions of the Kennedy half dollar have been produced over the years. In early 1992, the Mint released a 90% silver Kennedy half dollar specifically for collectors. This was followed by a 1998 release featuring both matte and shiny versions.
Among the most notable variants is the 1964 Kennedy “hair accent” coin. Early versions of this coin featured Kennedy’s hair with sharp outlines. However, Jacqueline Kennedy, the President’s widow, found the design unappealing, leading the Mint to soften the hair’s appearance. A limited number of these early proof coins were struck before the design was changed.
The Rare and Valuable 1964 Kennedy Special Strike Half-Dollar
Among the numerous Kennedy half-dollars minted, the 1964 Special Strike half-dollar stands out as the rarest and most valuable. This coin is known for its smooth finish, distinctive obverse, and intricate reverse design details. Unlike other coins, the Special Strike 1964 Kennedy half dollar is free of contact marks and features a matte finish with minimal imperfections.
The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) has authenticated only twelve 1964 Special Strike Kennedy half dollars, making it a highly sought-after item among collectors. One of these rare coins received a grade of SP68 and sold for a staggering $156,000 at a Stack’s Bowers auction.
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The Kennedy half dollar remains a significant piece of American history and numismatic value. While modern Kennedy half dollars are readily available, the rare silver editions from 1964 to 1970 are particularly prized. For those interested in exploring the value of other currencies or finding more about rare coins, the expert website Coin Value provides valuable insights and information.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer to numismatics, understanding the history and value of the Kennedy half dollar adds depth to your collection and appreciation of this iconic coin.