Kennedy Half Dollar Value (1964–Present)
Quick answer: 1964: 90% silver, worth $8–$12+. 1965–1970: 40% silver, worth $3–$5. 1971 onward: face value in circulation, with proofs and errors carrying premiums.
The Kennedy half dollar’s value comes down to one question: what year? Struck in tribute just months after JFK’s assassination, the 1964 issue was hoarded from day one — hundreds of millions vanished into drawers, and they’re all 90% silver.
The silver content dropped to 40% from 1965–1970, then to none. So: 1964 = best, 1965–70 = good, 1971+ = spend it (mostly). Check the edge — a solid silver edge means silver; copper stripe means clad.
Key dates worth serious money
1964 Accented Hair proof
$50 – $300
1966 SMS w/ doubled die
$50 – $500
1970-D
$10 – $40
1998-S matte finish
$150 – $350
2014-W 50th Anniversary gold
$1,300+ (bullion)
The story behind the coin
Congress authorized the coin within weeks of the assassination, and it debuted in March 1964 to lines around bank branches. Ironically, the public’s devotion killed its circulation: people saved rather than spent them, and the half dollar never returned to everyday commerce.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Kennedy half is silver?
Date first: 1964 is 90%, 1965–1970 is 40%. Then the edge test: silver editions show no copper band. 1971+ circulation strikes are clad (except special silver proofs marked by their S mint mark and sold in sets).
What is the Accented Hair variety?
An early 1964 proof die with heavier hair detail above Kennedy’s ear — roughly 1–3% of 1964 proofs, worth a strong premium.
Are bicentennial (1776–1976) halves valuable?
Circulated clad ones, no — about face value. S-mint 40% silver versions bring $4–$8.
Why can’t I find half dollars in change?
Banks stopped ordering them decades ago; they’re minted mainly for collectors now. Ask your bank for rolls — collectors still fish silver from them occasionally.
Related value guides
Franklin Half Dollar Value (1948–1963)
Silver Quarter Value (Pre-1965)
Eisenhower Dollar Value (1971–1978)
Values shown are typical retail ranges for the grades described, based on recent dealer and auction pricing. Markets move; exact value depends on grade, variety and eye appeal. This guide is informational and not a formal appraisal.