Have a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar tucked away in a drawer or coin jar? You might be sitting on a hidden treasure! Minted to honor President John F. Kennedy after his tragic assassination, this coin is more than just pocket change—it’s a piece of American history.
Some rare versions have sold for nearly $1 million at auction. Ready to find out if your coin is a jackpot? Let’s explore what makes the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar valuable, how to spot the rare editions, and why collectors are willing to pay big bucks for them.
The Story Behind the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
In early 1964, the U.S. Mint replaced the Franklin Half Dollar with the Kennedy Half Dollar to commemorate JFK, just months after his death in November 1963. Made of 90% silver, these coins were an instant hit.
People hoarded them as keepsakes, pulling them from circulation almost immediately. With over 429 million minted—273 million in Philadelphia (no mint mark) and 156 million in Denver (marked with a “D”)—they’re not all rare, but certain varieties can fetch a fortune.
Why Is the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Valuable?
The coin’s 90% silver content gives it a base value of about $14, tied to current silver prices. But its historical significance and rare varieties drive its worth far beyond that.
Collectors love it for its connection to JFK and the unique features that make some coins stand out. From printing errors to special finishes, let’s break down what makes these coins so special.
Common Values: What Most 1964 Kennedy Halves Are Worth
Most 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars won’t make you rich, but they’re still worth more than face value. Here’s a quick look:
- Circulated Coins: Showing wear from use, these fetch $10 to $15, mainly for their silver content.
- Uncirculated Coins: In mint condition (MS60 to MS65), they’re valued at $15 to $50. Higher grades like MS67 can go for $500 to $4,650.
- Proof Coins: Made for collectors with a mirror-like finish, these start at $16 for lower grades (PR65). A PR68 proof could sell for $100 to $700.
Rare Varieties That Could Make You Millions
Some 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are worth far more due to their rarity. Here are the two big ones to watch for:
1. Accented Hair Proof
Early proof coins, struck in Philadelphia, featured extra-detailed hairlines above Kennedy’s ear—think bold, curved strands. Jacqueline Kennedy reportedly disliked this design, so the Mint softened it. Only about 1–5% of the 3.95 million proof coins have this “Accented Hair” feature. You can spot it by checking the “I” in “LIBERTY”—it often lacks the lower left serif. Values range from $100 to $500 for a PR68, but a deep cameo version sold for $19,975 at auction.
2. Special Mint Set (SMS)
The rarest of all is the 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) coin. In 1964, the Mint didn’t produce official mint sets due to a coin shortage, but a tiny batch—estimated at 20 to 50 coins—was struck with a unique satin finish, sharp details, and heavy die polish lines. These aren’t proofs but have a distinct look. An SP68 SMS coin sold for $156,000, and some speculate prices could climb higher as collectors compete for these ultra-rare pieces.
How to Spot a Rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
Think you’ve got a winner? Here’s how to check:
- Confirm the Date: Ensure it’s a 1964 coin.
- Weigh It: It should be 12.5 grams, confirming its 90% silver composition.
- Check the Hair: Look for bold, accented hairlines above Kennedy’s ear for the rare proof variety.
- Examine the Finish: A satiny finish with visible die polish lines could indicate an SMS coin.
- Look for Mint Marks: No mint mark means Philadelphia; a “D” means Denver. Both can be valuable, but rarity depends on variety and condition.
- Avoid Cleaning: Cleaning ruins the coin’s natural patina and lowers its value.
For confirmation, get your coin graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC. They’ll authenticate and assign a grade, boosting its market value.
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Value Table
Here’s a quick reference for approximate values based on type and condition:
| Type/Variety | Grade | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated (Common) | Good/Fine | $10 – $15 |
| Uncirculated | MS60 – MS65 | $15 – $50 |
| High-Grade Uncirculated | MS67+ | $500 – $4,650 |
| Standard Proof | PR65 – PR68 | $16 – $700 |
| Accented Hair Proof | PR68 | $100 – $500 |
| Accented Hair Deep Cameo | PR68 | Up to $19,975 |
| Special Mint Set (SMS) | SP67 – SP68 | $20,000 – $156,000 |
Real-Life Examples of High-Value Sales
- 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar: An SP68 sold for $156,000 at auction, with some estimates suggesting prices could near $1 million for pristine examples.
- Accented Hair Deep Cameo Proof: A PR68 deep cameo fetched $19,975 due to its rarity and stunning contrast.
- 1964-D MS68: A Denver-minted coin in top condition sold for $22,325 in 2016, showing even non-proof coins can be valuable.
Tips for Selling Your Coin
If you think you’ve found a rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, follow these steps:
- Compare Features: Use resources like PCGS or Heritage Auctions to match your coin’s traits.
- Get It Graded: Professional grading by PCGS or NGC confirms authenticity and boosts value.
- Sell Smart: High-value coins do best at auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers. For common coins, try local coin shops or eBay.
Pro Tip: Handle coins with care using gloves or tweezers, and store them in protective sleeves to maintain their condition.
Is Your Coin a Hidden Treasure?
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is a fascinating mix of history, silver, and rarity. While most are worth $10 to $50, spotting an Accented Hair Proof or an ultra-rare SMS could mean a six-figure payday. So, dig through your change, check grandma’s coin collection, or rummage through that old jar. You never know—your 50-cent piece could be worth nearly $1 million! Always consult a professional for authentication to ensure you get top dollar.
FAQs About the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
Q: Why is the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar valuable?
A: Its 90% silver content, historical significance, and rare varieties like the Accented Hair Proof and SMS make it valuable, with some fetching up to $156,000.
Q: How can I tell if my 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is rare?
A: Check for the 1964 date, weigh it (12.5 grams for silver), look for accented hair above Kennedy’s ear, or check for a satiny SMS finish. Get it graded by PCGS or NGC.
Q: What is the Accented Hair Proof?
A: It’s an early proof coin with bold hairlines above Kennedy’s ear, often missing the lower left serif on the “I” in “LIBERTY.” It’s worth $100 to $19,975.
Q: What is the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar?
A: A rare special strike with a satin finish and heavy die polish lines, estimated at 20–50 coins. They can sell for $20,000 to $156,000.
Q: Where can I sell my 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar?
A: For rare varieties, use auction houses like Heritage Auctions. For common coins, try local coin shops or eBay.
Q: Does cleaning my coin increase its value?
A: No, cleaning damages the coin’s patina and lowers its value. Leave it untouched and consult a professional.