1964 Half Dollar = American coin history remembers the Kennedy Half Dollar minted in 1964 as a unique contribution. A few rare Kennedy half dollars went into millions of dollars in auction sales due to their scarcity.
The launch of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
After the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, a wave of mourning spread across America. Soon after this tragic incident, the US Mint decided that Kennedy’s image would be engraved on the half-dollar. Chief designer Gilroy Roberts designed the obverse of the coin and assistant engraver Frank Gasparro designed the reverse.
This coin was issued in 1964, consisting of 90% silver and 10% copper. This metal composition makes it even more attractive among collectors.
Key Specifications
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Weight: 12.5 grams
- Diameter: 30.6 mm
- Edge: Reeded
Rare Varieties and Their High Price
Although millions of 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar coins were minted, some special versions are so rare that their price has reached up to $500,000. Let’s know about their major varieties:
1. 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Variants
These coins have a satin-like finish and fine details on the surface. Their origin is unclear, making them even more mysterious and valuable.
- Auction Example: A 1964 SMS coin (SP68 grade) sold for $156,000 in 2019.
2. 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Variants
Early proof coins with more raised texture on Kennedy’s hair are called the “accented hair” version. This design was quickly changed at Jacqueline Kennedy’s request, making this version very rare.
- Higher-grade proofs can command very high prices.
High-grade Mint State Coins
Coins that grade MS67 or above are very rare.
- Example: A 1964-D half dollar (MS68) sold for $22,325 in 2016.
Key factors in pricing
The price of any 1964 Kennedy half dollar depends on several factors:
- Condition: The better and unblemished the coin, the more it will be worth.
- Rarity: Special variants like SMS or Accented Hair are rare.
- Historical significance: It was the first coin to commemorate President Kennedy, so it has sentimental and historical value.
- Silver content: It is 90% silver and thus has a good base value.
Famous auctions and records
How to identify the coin you have?
If you have a 1964 Kennedy half dollar, pay attention to the following:
- Look at the hair design: If the hair looks prominent above the ear, it may be the Accented Hair variant.
- Check the surface: Coins with a satin finish may be SMS variants.
- Look for the mint mark: If the coin has a “D” written on it, it is from the Denver Mint. If there is no mark, it is from Philadelphia.
- Assess the condition: Coins without scratches, dents or wear are worth more.
Conclusion
The 1964 Kennedy half dollar is not an ordinary coin. It symbolizes a pivotal moment in American history.
The coin’s historic, sentimental and metal value, as well as the extreme rarity of certain variants, make it a collector’s dream. If you own such a coin, you may be holding millions of dollars worth of hidden treasure.
FAQs On 1964 Half Dollar
Q. What is the normal value of a 1964 Kennedy half dollar?
A. If the coin is in normal condition, it can be worth $10-$15 depending on its silver content. But special variants can be worth thousands to millions of dollars.
Q. How to identify the accentuated hair variant?
A. In this variant, Kennedy’s hair is more prominent above the ear. You will need to examine the coin in good light to identify it.
Q. How to identify SMS coins?
A. SMS coins have a satin-like finish on the surface and the design is extremely clean and detailed.