1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Worth $200,000 – Check If You Have One!

The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is more than just a piece of currency—it’s a slice of American history that has captured the hearts of collectors. What makes it even more intriguing is that some rare varieties of this coin have sold for as much as $200,000. If you happen to own one, you could be sitting on a small fortune without even realizing it.

Origins

The Kennedy Half Dollar was first minted in 1964 as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy after his assassination in 1963. The U.S. Mint rushed the design process to honor the late president, with Gilroy Roberts crafting Kennedy’s portrait on the front and Frank Gasparro designing the Presidential Seal on the back.

What sets the 1964 version apart from later issues is its metal composition. It was the only year the coin was made with 90% silver, making it particularly valuable to collectors. In subsequent years, the silver content was reduced, making the 1964 edition a sought-after relic of history.

Rare

While millions of 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars were minted, only a few select varieties are worth substantial amounts. These include:

1964 Special Mint Set (SMS)

One of the rarest and most valuable versions is the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar. Experts believe only 12 to 50 of these coins exist. They were likely experimental pieces, made for a proposed Special Mint Set that was never officially released.

Characteristics:

• Satin-like finish with a smooth texture
• Sharper details compared to regular circulation coins
• Distinct die polishing marks

Value:
Due to their extreme rarity, these coins can fetch upwards of $200,000 at auction. In 2019, one graded SP68 by PCGS sold for $156,000. As interest in rare coins grows, the price for these coins continues to rise.

Accented Hair Proof

Another highly sought-after variety is the “Accented Hair” proof. This version features a more pronounced hair design above Kennedy’s ear, which was quickly modified, making the original version rare.

How to Identify It:

• The hair above Kennedy’s ear has more defined strands
• The “I” in “LIBERTY” lacks a serif, a subtle but key distinguishing feature

Value:
While not as rare as the SMS version, the Accented Hair proof can still command thousands of dollars. High-grade examples in pristine condition can reach even higher values.

High-Grade Circulated Coins

Even regular 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars can be valuable if they are in excellent condition. Coins graded MS65 or higher can sell for a premium, especially those with deep cameo contrast, which gives them a striking visual appeal.

Identifying

If you think you might have a valuable 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, here’s how to check:

1. Examine the Finish
   • A satin-like texture suggests an SMS coin.
   • A mirror-like surface indicates a proof coin.
2. Check for Key Features
   • Look for the Accented Hair detail above Kennedy’s ear.
   • Inspect the “I” in “LIBERTY” for the missing serif.
3. Assess the Condition
   • Coins in mint-state condition (MS65 and above) are worth more.
   • Deep cameo contrast can significantly boost the value.
4. Get a Professional Appraisal
   • Have your coin graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC.
   • Grading adds authenticity and helps determine market value.

The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is more than just a coin—it’s a piece of history that could be worth a small fortune. Whether you have an SMS variety, an Accented Hair proof, or a high-grade circulation coin, it pays to know what you’re holding. Getting your coin professionally graded is the best way to confirm its authenticity and potential value. If you find one in excellent condition, you might just have a hidden treasure on your hands.

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