The Kennedy Half Dollar, minted since 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, hides rare gems that can fetch up to $250,000. While most are worth 50 cents, specific errors, finishes, and conditions make certain coins collector’s treasures. With over 4.1 billion minted, a few stand out as jackpot finds. Here’s how to spot six of the most valuable Kennedy Half Dollars in your collection or pocket change.
1. 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS)
The ultra-rare 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar, with only about 12 known, boasts a satin finish and razor-sharp strikes. Graded SP68, one sold for $156,000 in 2019 at Stack’s Bowers. Look for a velvety texture, squared rims, and no mint mark. Possibly an experimental strike, it’s a numismatic unicorn. Check old coin sets or family heirlooms for this hidden gem.
2. 1964 Accented Hair Proof
Early 1964 proof coins show heavy hair strands above Kennedy’s ear and a missing serif on the “I” in “LIBERTY.” Only 1–3% of 3.95 million proofs carry this design, valued up to $20,000 in PR68. Use a magnifying glass to spot extra hair and a weak “I.” These Philadelphia-minted coins have a mirror-like finish and no mint mark.
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1970-D, with a mintage of 2.15 million, was exclusive to Mint Sets, not circulation. As the last 40% silver Kennedy Half, it’s rare in high grades, with a MS67 fetching $150,000. Check for the “D” mint mark and proof-like surfaces. Weigh it (11.5 grams) to confirm silver. Unopened 1970 Mint Sets may hold pristine examples.
4. 1967 Special Mint Set (SMS)
The 1967 SMS, minted in San Francisco without an “S” mint mark, features a satin finish. With 2.26 million produced, a SP68 sold for $31,200 in 2019. Look for a soft, non-reflective surface and no mint mark. Part of Special Mint Sets during a coin shortage, they’re scarce in top condition. Search 1960s collector sets.
5. 1998-S Matte Proof
The 1998-S Matte Proof, from the Kennedy Collector’s Set, has a low mintage of 62,000. Its frosted, non-reflective finish and “S” mint mark make it worth $2,000–$4,000 in PR69. Check for a matte surface. Often found in original sets, these are collector favorites, so inspect numismatic kits.
6. 1974-D Doubled Die Obverse
The 1974-D with a doubled die obverse shows slight doubling in “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY.” This error, marked with a “D,” can fetch $1,000–$3,000 in MS65. Use a loupe to spot doubled lettering. Rare in circulation, check 1974-D coins in old rolls or change.
Specifications of Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars
| Coin Variant | Mint Mark | Key Features | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 SMS | None | Satin finish, sharp strikes | Up to $156,000 |
| 1964 Accented Hair | None | Pronounced hair, weak “I” serif | Up to $20,000 |
| 1970-D | D | 40% silver, Mint Set only | Up to $150,000 |
| 1967 SMS | None | Satin finish, no mint mark | Up to $31,200 |
| 1998-S Matte Proof | S | Matte finish, low mintage | $2,000–$4,000 |
| 1974-D Doubled Die | D | Doubling in obverse inscriptions | $1,000–$3,000 |