Complete Guide to Collecting Kennedy Half Dollars

By GovMint :

Table of Contents

• The History of Kennedy Half Dollars & Their Face Value
• What Years Were Kennedy Half Dollars Made?
• Where Are Kennedy Half Dollars Minted?
• Why Collect U.S. Kennedy Half Dollars?
• Are Kennedy Half Dollars Pure Silver?
• What Makes a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Rare?
• Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollars
• How to Collect Kennedy Half Dollars
• What Should I Look for When Collecting Kennedy Half Dollars?
• 3 Ways to Collect Kennedy Half Dollars
• Where to Buy Kennedy Half Dollars

There is no denying the impact the assassination of President John F. Kennedy had on the country. It's one of the few moments in our nation's history that Americans vividly remember exactly where they were and what they were doing when the news of this tragic event spread on November 22, 1963. JFK's assassination changed the course of history. It also had a lasting effect on U.S. Coinage. 

The History of Kennedy Half Dollars and Their Face Value

After the fateful trip to Dallas on November 22, 1963, when President John F. Kennedy was tragically assassinated, mourning Americans suggested the silver dollar - or another one of the nation's coins due for a design change - bear JFK's likeness as a tribute to his legacy.

On December 10, 1963, President Lyndon Johnson requested that Congress authorize JFK's portrait be placed on the U.S. half dollar that currently featured the portrait of Benjamin Franklin. There was only one problem with this request. The Coin Act of September 26, 1890, prohibited the Secretary of the Treasury from changing the design of any circulating coin until after its required 25-year "length of service" had elapsed. The Franklin half dollar had only been struck for 15 years. To trump this requirement, special congressional action was needed. The House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate approved the placement of JFK's image on the U.S. half dollar, abruptly ending the Franklin Half Dollar series ten years early. President Johnson signed the bill into law on December 30, 1963, creating Public Law 88-256.

The Kennedy Half Dollar, introduced in 1964, holds a special place in American numismatic history. With a face value of 50 cents, it has not been issued into circulation since 2002, though the United States Mint still releases it in rolls, bags, and annual Proof and Mint Sets.

The image selected for the Kennedy half dollar was the one that appeared on Kennedy's Inaugural medal of 1961. The late president "personally approved" of this design. The obverse side of the coin prominently features a profile portrait of President Kennedy designed by Gilroy Roberts. It is considered one of American history's most iconic and enduring coin designs. The reverse side, created by Frank Gasparro, showcases the presidential seal with a heraldic eagle. Over the years, the Kennedy Half Dollar has experienced subtle design modifications but has preserved its role as a tribute to a revered president.

Today, over 45 years later, JFK's image still lives on in the pockets and collections of many Americans.

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What Years Were Kennedy Half Dollars Made?

Kennedy Half Dollars have continued to be minted since 1964, though they have not been issued into circulation since 2002. The United States Mint still sells clad Kennedy Half Dollars in rolls and bags and they can also be found in annual Proof and Mint Set releases.  There was a brief period from 1975 to 1976 where the design of the Kennedy Half Dollars was updated to celebrate the Bicentennial of the Declaration of Independence with the issuance of commemorative circulating coins inscribed with the dates 1776-1976.  

Where Are Kennedy Half Dollars Minted?

The Kennedy Half Dollar has been primarily minted at three U.S. Mint locations throughout its history. These mints include the Philadelphia Mint, the Denver Mint, and the San Francisco Mint. To distinguish the origin of these coins, mint marks are used. The Philadelphia Mint typically does not use a mint mark but denotes coins minted there by the absence of this mark. The Denver Mint uses a "D" mint mark, while the San Francisco Mint typically uses an "S" mint mark. In 2014, the West Point Mint, denoted by a “W” mint mark, did strike special reverse proof and gold versions of the Kennedy Half Dollar in honor of the 50th anniversary of the series. Collectors often pay close attention to mint marks, as they can significantly affect a coin's rarity and overall appeal.

Why Collect U.S. Kennedy Half Dollars?

Individuals collect Kennedy Half Dollars for a variety of reasons, ranging from a passionate hobby to an interest in United States history. The coin's historical significance, particularly as a tribute to President Kennedy, makes it an attractive item for collectors interested in American history and numismatics. Some collectors are drawn to the aesthetic appeal of the coin's designs, while others seek to complete sets, including different mint marks and special editions.

Are Kennedy Half Dollars Pure Silver?

While some Kennedy Half Dollars have a composition of either 90 percent silver or 40 percent silver, some do not contain any silver at all.  Kennedys, minted in 1964, contain 90 percent pure silver. But the following year, due to silver shortages, that percentage was reduced to 40 percent, lasting until 1970. With the exception of the Silver Kennedy Half Dollars minted between 1964 and 1970, all Kennedys since then have been minted with a copper-nickel alloy (the same materials used in U.S. dimes and quarters) with no silver included in their composition. 

Silver Kennedy Half Dollars can still be found in Silver Proof Sets. Before 2018, these Silver Kennedy Proofs contained 90 percent fine silver. Following 2018, they contain 99.9 percent fine silver.

Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollars

The Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar was issued in 1975 and 1976 and is a coin that holds a special place in American numismatics. It was created to commemorate the bicentennial anniversary of the United States, celebrating 200 years of independence. With a slightly modified portrait of President John F. Kennedy on the obverse side, the reverse showcases a striking image of Independence Hall. 

This coin is notable because its design came from a competition hosted by the Treasury Department. This competition was open to the public, and a five-judge panel selected winners.

Over its duration, billions of the Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar coins were struck, making them widely accessible to the public. While this large mintage might not contribute to their rarity, their historical significance and aesthetic appeal have made them a popular choice among collectors and a lasting reminder of the nation's bicentennial celebration.

How to Collect Kennedy Half Dollars

Starting a Kennedy Half Dollar collection is an enjoyable and accessible hobby for collectors of all levels. To begin, you can acquire Kennedy Half Dollars through coin exchanges at local banks, attend coin shows, or purchase them from reputable coin dealers and online marketplaces. 

Using a coin album or folders specifically designed for half dollars is one way to organize and protect your collection. Remember, collecting Kennedy Half Dollars can be as casual or in-depth as you prefer, so enjoy the process and savor the history and beauty of these iconic coins.

What Should I Look for When Collecting Kennedy Half Dollars?

When collecting Kennedy Half Dollars, there are several key elements to consider to build a well-rounded collection. First, pay attention to the coin's anatomy, which includes its overall condition. Higher-quality coins with minimal wear and blemishes tend to be prized by collectors. Additionally, scrutinize the coin's finish, as proof versions with a mirrored, polished appearance can be more appealing to collectors or potential buyers if you later intend to sell. 

Other features or items you should look for include:

• Mint marks
• Special edition or commemorative releases
• Historical significance
• Composition
• Mintage  

Considerations like these can help you identify Kennedy Half Dollars and impact their collector appeal. 

3 Ways to Collect Kennedy Half Dollars

There are several ways to collect Kennedy Half Dollars, but among the most prevalent are organizing them by year, grading, or mint of origin.

#1. By Year

Collecting Kennedy Half Dollars by the year they were minted involves acquiring one coin from each year since its introduction in 1964. This strategy allows collectors to trace the coin's historical evolution, noting design changes, special editions, and any unique characteristics specific to each year. It offers a broad view of the coin's journey through time, making it a popular choice for those interested in both the aesthetic and historical aspects of numismatics.

#2. By Grade

Another simple strategy is to collect Kennedy Half Dollars by their grade or condition. Many numismatists seek specimens with minimal wear and imperfections, aiming for higher-grade coins, which are often rated by professional grading services. This approach highlights the pursuit of pristine, well-preserved examples, focusing on aesthetic quality and appeal in the collector's market.

#3. By Mint

You can also collect Kennedy Half Dollars by where they were minted. Each U.S. mint location is denoted by a specific mintmark, such as "D" for Denver, "S" for San Francisco, and none for Philadelphia. This method allows collectors to explore the various releases from different mints, with some potentially having unique characteristics, making it a fun way to diversify a Kennedy Half Dollar collection and seek out special editions and mint-specific variations.

Where to Buy Kennedy Half Dollars

When it comes to trusted dealers, GovMint.com stands out as a reputable and established choice. Committed to fair prices and authenticity, we offer collectors, both seasoned and newcomers to the hobby, peace of mind with the genuine coins we sell. If you're eager to start or build your Kennedy Half Dollar collection, visit our GovMint.com website today.

Plus, don't miss the rest of our excellent coin guides!

Guide To Collecting Gold Eagles 

Guide To Collecting Pennies

Guide To Collecting Wheat Pennies

Guide To Collecting Steel Pennies

Guide To Collecting Quarters 

Guide To Collecting Half Dollars 

Guide To Collecting Silver Dollars

Resources:

https://www.usmint.gov/coins/coin-medal-programs/circulating-coins/half-dollar

https://coinweek.com/the-1964-kennedy-half-dollar-history-and-values/

https://www.coinstudy.com/silver-kennedy-half-dollars.html

https://www.coinworld.com/numismatic/collector-basics/start-your-collection/know-your-us-coins-kennedy-half-dollar.html

https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/minting-a-legacy-the-history-of-the-kennedy-half-dollar.htm

https://coinweek.com/united-states-1976-bicentennial-kennedy-half-dolla

https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/kennedy-half-dollar-values-3892409