The Kennedy Half Dollar coin, first minted in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy following his assassination, has become one of the most widely collected coins in U.S. history.
While many of these coins are relatively common, certain rare varieties have seen their value soar to staggering amounts.
These rare finds, particularly those with mint errors, limited mintage, or unique characteristics, could change your financial future.
Let’s explore 10 Kennedy Half Dollar coins that are worth $100,000+ and what makes them so valuable.
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Coins – First Year of Minting
The first year of the Kennedy Half Dollar Coins series, the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, is one of the most sought-after coins.
This coin was struck in 90% silver, which gives it intrinsic value beyond its face value. While many of these coins are fairly common, those in mint condition or with special errors can fetch upwards of $100,000, especially if they are graded MS-65 or higher.
2. 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar Coins (Double Die Obverse)
The 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar Coins features a double die obverse error, where the design was struck twice, leading to a doubled image.
This error coin is rare and can fetch between $100,000 to $200,000, depending on its condition. Collectors eagerly seek this coin due to its rarity and the unique design flaw.
3. 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar Coins – Silver Variant
Though most 1965 Kennedy Half Dollars were struck with a clad composition, a small number were mistakenly produced with silver content.
This rare variant is incredibly valuable and can reach $100,000 or more in mint condition, especially if certified by a grading service.
4. 1969-S Kennedy Half Dollar (Doubled Die Obverse)
The 1969-S Kennedy Half Dollar Coins is another error coin that features a doubled die obverse. This misalignment of the die during minting resulted in a coin with a noticeable doubling effect.
Coins in good condition can command $100,000+ at auction due to their rarity and appeal among collectors.
5. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar (Rare Varieties)
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is rare due to its low mintage. Unlike other years, the 1970-D was not widely circulated, making it more difficult to find in mint condition.
A perfect specimen can fetch as much as $100,000 due to its scarcity and demand among coin enthusiasts.
6. 1976-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar (Silver Proof)
The 1976-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar was minted to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence.
While the coin is commonly available, the silver proof versions are particularly rare and can reach up to $200,000 if they are in pristine condition.
7. 1998-W Kennedy Half Dollar (Gold Commemorative)
The 1998-W Kennedy Half Dollar was minted as a part of a gold commemorative set. Only a limited number of these coins were made, making them rare.
In excellent condition, these coins can be worth over $100,000, especially to collectors seeking gold variants of the Kennedy series.
8. 1999-S Kennedy Half Dollar (Clad, With No Mint Mark)
The 1999-S Kennedy Half Dollar produced at the San Francisco Mint without a mint mark is considered an error coin, making it highly valuable. If in perfect condition, this coin could fetch as much as $150,000, especially with proper certification.
9. 1982-P Kennedy Half Dollar (No Mint Mark)
A 1982-P Kennedy Half Dollar missing the mint mark is another error coin that is prized by collectors. Its rarity makes it extremely valuable, with some coins being sold for upwards of $100,000 in mint condition.
10. 1987-P Kennedy Half Dollar (Rare and High Demand)
The 1987-P Kennedy Half Dollar is unique because it was only minted for a short period, making it relatively rare.
Despite being a more recent coin, it can fetch high prices when found in excellent condition or with certain errors, with prices reaching $100,000+ for rare finds.
| Coin Name | Mint Year | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar | 1964 | 90% Silver, First Year | $100,000+ |
| 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar (Double Die) | 1964 | Double Die Obverse Error | $100,000 – $200,000 |
| 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar (Silver Variant) | 1965 | Rare Silver Variant | $100,000+ |
| 1969-S Kennedy Half Dollar (Doubled Die) | 1969 | Doubled Die Obverse | $100,000+ |
| 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar | 1970 | Low Mintage | $100,000+ |
| 1976-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar | 1976 | Silver Proof Commemorative Coin | $200,000+ |
| 1998-W Kennedy Half Dollar (Gold) | 1998 | Gold Commemorative Coin | $100,000+ |
| 1999-S Kennedy Half Dollar (No Mint Mark) | 1999 | Missing Mint Mark | $150,000+ |
| 1982-P Kennedy Half Dollar (No Mint Mark) | 1982 | Error Coin (No Mint Mark) | $100,000+ |
| 1987-P Kennedy Half Dollar | 1987 | Rare and High Demand | $100,000+ |
The Kennedy Half Dollar coins are a staple in the world of coin collecting, with some rare variants and mint errors commanding substantial sums at auctions.
These coins are more than just currency—they are pieces of history that tell a story of minting errors, low production numbers, and commemorative significance.
If you are fortunate enough to own one of these rare coins, you might just be sitting on a fortune. Whether you’re a collector or an investor,
knowing the key Kennedy Half Dollar coins that are worth $100,000+ could change your financial future.
FAQs
How can I determine if my Kennedy Half Dollar coin is valuable?
To determine the value of your Kennedy Half Dollar, check for rare minting errors, the year it was minted, and its condition. Coins in excellent condition and those with mint errors or low mintage are often the most valuable.
Can I sell my rare Kennedy Half Dollar coin?
Yes, you can sell your rare Kennedy Half Dollar coin through reputable dealers, online auction sites like eBay, or at numismatic conventions. Always have the coin professionally graded to ensure you receive the best price.
Why are some Kennedy Half Dollar coins worth so much?
The value of certain Kennedy Half Dollar coins is driven by factors such as minting errors, low mintage, historical significance, and the condition of the coin. Coins with these traits can fetch high prices at auctions, especially if they are rare or in mint condition.
