The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar: Understanding Its Value and Demand

The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar: The Kennedy Half Dollar of 1964 has served not only as legal tender but as an emblem of a national mourning, a token of numismatic history, and a desirable collectible. This coin was minted after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, and hence it sits most deservingly in a special spot in the hearts of Americans and numismatists across the globe. A coin that became prominent due to its special history and high silver content, coupled with certain variations, makes it one of the most sought-after U.S. half-dollar coins in history.

Further in this article, we will address some of the factors that have endowed the coin with esteem, looking into its historical perspective, its composition, mintage, certain key variations, and some current market values.

Historical Perspective: Homage to a Hallowed President

President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas, on November 22, 1963. His nation’s shock and mourning prompted plans for a hasty tribute to honor his legacy through coins.

The decision to place Kennedy on the half dollar coin was done so expeditiously, putting him on the coin instead of the Franklin half dollar, which had been in circulation since 1948. The first Kennedy half dollars were struck within months of his death in early 1964. It was their quick work that showed the amazing respect and adoration that the American people held for their fallen leader.

When released, the 1964 Kennedy half dollars were sold frantically with people scrambling to banks to obtain these coins; many coins were hoarded, thus never passing hands. This tremendous interest cemented the position of the Kennedy half-dollar in the annals of American numismatic history.

Silver Content and Composition: The Last 90% Silver Half Dollar

One important reason why the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is so highly sought after is its high silver content. The coin was composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with an approximate .3617 troy ounces of pure silver actual weight and a coin weight of 12.50 grams.

• This high content of silver renders substantial intrinsic value to the coin, making it attractive to numismatists and investors in silver alike.
• However, from that moment on, the U.S. Mint changed the coin’s composition in accordance with rising silver prices:
• 1965-1970: Kennedy Half Dollars were minted with only 40% silver, which lowered their intrinsic value.
• 1971 and beyond: The Mint removed silver entirely, replacing it with a copper-nickel clad composition.
  Because of this shift, the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar stands out as the last regularly issued half-dollar containing 90% silver, making it especially desirable among collectors.

Mintage and Availability: How Many Were Made?

To meet the overwhelming demand, the U.S. Mint produced an exceptionally large number of 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars. The coin was minted at two locations:

Philadelphia Mint: 277,254,766 coins
Denver Mint: 156,205,446 coins
This brings the total mintage to over 430 million coins, an incredibly high figure for a commemorative coin.

Despite this large production, many of these coins were hoarded or melted down for their silver content over the years. As a result, while they are still relatively common, high-quality specimens in uncirculated or proof conditions are much scarcer and command a premium price.

Factors That Make This Coin Desirable

Several aspects contribute to the Kennedy Half Dollar’s lasting appeal:

1. High Silver Content
   The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is the only year of the series to feature a 90% silver composition, setting it apart from later issues that contained less or no silver.
2. Historical Significance
   As a tribute to one of America’s most beloved presidents, this coin carries deep emotional and historical weight. It remains a tangible connection to the Kennedy legacy and the turbulent events of the 1960s.
3. Unique Varieties and Collectibility
   Certain variations of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, such as the “Accented Hair” proof variety and high-grade specimens, are highly sought after by collectors and can command significantly higher prices.

Key Variations and Their Value

While most 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are considered common, certain variations and high-quality specimens can fetch substantial premiums.

1. Accented Hair Variety: This variety features a more pronounced hairline above Kennedy’s ear. Found only on early proof coins minted in Philadelphia, the Accented Hair variety is rarer than the standard issue. These coins are highly collectible and generally sell for more than regular proof coins.
2. High-Grade Specimens (MS68 or Higher): Coins in exceptional condition (graded MS68 or above) are extremely rare. In May 2024, a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar graded MS68 sold for $57,600 at auction, showcasing the demand for pristine examples.
3. Special Mint Sets (SMS): Some 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars were included in Special Mint Sets (SMS). These coins have a distinct satin finish and were produced in very limited quantities, making them highly valuable among collectors.

Conclusion

The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar remains one of the most treasured U.S. coins due to its historical significance, high silver content, and unique varieties. Whether you are an experienced numismatist, a casual collector, or an investor in precious metals, this coin is an excellent addition to any collection.

With its enduring appeal and growing scarcity of high-quality examples, the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar continues to be a timeless piece of American history—both as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy and as a valuable collectible in the world of numismatics.

FAQs