Half dollar coins often slip under the radar, usually tossed aside as pocket change. But what if that clunky coin in your drawer is actually worth hundreds of dollars? Some half dollars—especially older or unique ones—are highly prized by collectors and could fetch way more than fifty cents.
If you’re curious about coin collecting or just want to know if you’ve got hidden treasure in your change jar, this list of nine valuable half dollar coins is for you.
Table of Contents
Kennedy
Let’s start with a classic: the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar. Released shortly after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, this coin is special for more than sentimental reasons. It’s 90% silver, which gives it a strong base value for precious metal content alone.
- Mintage: 273 million
- Estimated Value: Around $10 in circulated condition, more if it’s pristine
If you’ve got a shiny 1964 half dollar lying around, it might be time to give it a closer look.
Accented
A rare variation of the original Kennedy coin is the 1964 “Accented Hair” Proof. This version has more pronounced hair details over Kennedy’s ear—easy to spot if you know what to look for.
- Mintage: About 100,000
- Estimated Value: $100–$500 depending on condition
Collectors love this subtle design difference, and the low mintage makes it a prized find.
1970-D
Now here’s a coin that never hit circulation—the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar. It was only available in mint sets, making it harder to find in everyday change.
- Mint Mark: D (Denver)
- Mintage: 2.15 million
- Value: $20–$50 uncirculated
It’s not silver, but its scarcity keeps its value strong.
1987
The 1987 P&D Kennedy Half Dollars are another set of coins only made for collectors. You won’t find these in your change, but they’re still affordable collector’s items.
- Mintage: 2.89 million of each
- Value: $2–$5
Even though they’re not old, their limited release keeps them on the radar.
Matte
The 1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar was part of a commemorative set for Robert F. Kennedy. Its matte finish gives it a unique texture and look.
- Mintage: 62,000
- Value: $100–$200
This one’s all about aesthetics and rarity combined.
2001-P
You might overlook the 2001-P Kennedy Half Dollar, but its mintage was much lower than in previous years.
- Mintage: 19.5 million
- Value: $2–$5 in uncirculated condition
While circulated versions are worth only face value, clean uncirculated coins still draw interest.
NIFC
From 2002 to 2020, Kennedy half dollars weren’t intended for circulation. These NIFC (Not Intended for Circulation) coins came only in mint or collector sets.
- Value: $2–$5 each
If you find one in your pocket change, it’s probably from someone who broke up a mint set.
Missing
Error coins like the 1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar with Missing “FG” Initials are where things get really interesting. Some of these coins are missing the “FG” initials (for designer Frank Gasparro) near the eagle’s tail.
- Value: $50–$150
Minting mistakes are rare—and valuable. Keep an eye out!
Doubled
The 1974-D Kennedy Half Dollar with a Double Die Obverse features a clear double image on Kennedy’s profile and some inscriptions.
- Value: $50–$100
This error coin adds a twist—literally—to your collection.
Table
Here’s a quick reference table for all nine:
| Year | Coin Type | Feature | Mintage | Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | Kennedy Half Dollar | 90% Silver | 273 million | $10+ |
| 1964 | “Accented Hair” Proof | Sharper Hair Details | 100,000 | $100–$500 |
| 1970-D | Kennedy Half Dollar | Not Circulated | 2.15 million | $20–$50 |
| 1987 P&D | Kennedy Half Dollars | Mint Set Only | 2.89 million ea | $2–$5 |
| 1998-S | Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar | Matte Texture | 62,000 | $100–$200 |
| 2001-P | Kennedy Half Dollar | Low Mintage | 19.5 million | $2–$5 |
| 2002-2020 | NIFC Kennedy Half Dollars | Collector Set Only | Varies | $2–$5 |
| 1966 | SMS Kennedy Half Dollar | Missing “FG” Initials | Varies | $50–$150 |
| 1974-D | Kennedy Half Dollar | Double Die Obverse | Varies | $50–$100 |
These half dollars are more than just coins—they’re snapshots of American history and miniature treasures. If you’re a casual collector or just someone curious about what’s in your change jar, you might be sitting on something far more valuable than fifty cents.
Start checking those dates and details—you never know what kind of history (or hidden value) you might observe.
FAQs
What is the rarest Kennedy half dollar?
The 1964 “Accented Hair” proof is one of the rarest.
Are 1970-D half dollars silver?
Yes, they contain 40% silver and weren’t released for circulation.
What does NIFC mean on coins?
NIFC stands for Not Intended for Circulation.
Is the 1998-S half dollar valuable?
Yes, the matte finish version is worth $100–$200.
Where is the FG on Kennedy half dollars?
Near the eagle’s tail feathers on the coin’s reverse.
