1964 Kennedy Half Dollar: Imagine finding a 50-cent coin in your pocket worth $19 million! The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, minted to honor President John F. Kennedy after his 1963 assassination, is a common coin, but rare versions with unique errors or perfect condition have sold for huge sums. One reportedly fetched $19 million, though experts question this figure. This article explains in simple words why some are so valuable, how to spot them, and where to look. Check your coins—you might have a treasure!
What Is the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar?
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar was the first coin in its series, introduced months after President Kennedy’s death. It features JFK’s portrait on the front, designed by Gilroy Roberts, and an eagle with a shield on the back, by Frank Gasparro. Over 429 million were minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (“D”), with most made of 90% silver. Regular ones are worth about $10 for their silver, but rare errors or pristine coins can fetch thousands or millions.
Why Are Some Worth So Much?
Certain 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are valuable due to:
- Minting Errors: Mistakes like double stamping or wrong metal.
- Silver Content: 90% silver coins are more valuable than later clad versions.
- Condition: Perfect, unworn coins (graded MS-68 or higher) are rare.
- Historical Value: The coin’s tie to JFK’s legacy boosts demand.
The $19 million claim likely refers to a unique error or perfect specimen, but no confirmed sale has reached that amount. A top-grade 1964-D sold for $156,000 in 2019, and error coins can hit $50,000.
The $19 Million Kennedy Half Dollar: Fact or Myth?
The $19 million valuation is likely exaggerated, possibly tied to a rare error like a double-die or a unique transitional error (struck on a 90% silver planchet meant for another coin). No public auction has recorded a $19 million sale, but a 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) coin sold for $108,000 in 2021, and some errors fetch $10,000–$50,000. The $19 million figure may stem from online hype or a private sale rumor, but it keeps collectors excited.
Top Rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars to Look For
Here are the key versions collectors seek:
1. 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Coin
- Why Rare: Experimental coins with a satin finish, possibly only a few made.
- How to Spot: No mint mark, unique satin texture, sharper details.
- Value: $10,000–$108,000.
2. 1964-D Double-Die Obverse
- Why Rare: Blurry text or portrait from double stamping.
- How to Spot: Check “LIBERTY” or “1964” for doubling with a magnifying glass.
- Value: $1,000–$35,000.
3. 1964 Accented Hair Proof
- Why Rare: Early proof coins with heavier hair details above JFK’s ear.
- How to Spot: Look for thick hair strands, no mint mark, mirror-like finish.
- Value: $5,000–$20,000.
4. 1964-D Struck on Silver Dime Planchet
- Why Rare: Minted on a smaller dime blank by mistake.
- How to Spot: Smaller size, weighs 2.5 grams, 90% silver.
- Value: $5,000–$50,000.
| Coin Type | Key Feature | Mint Mark | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Special Mint Set (SMS) | Satin finish, sharp details | None | $10,000–$108,000 |
| Double-Die Obverse | Blurry text or portrait | D | $1,000–$35,000 |
| Accented Hair Proof | Heavy hair details, proof | None | $5,000–$20,000 |
| Struck on Dime Planchet | Smaller, weighs 2.5 grams | D | $5,000–$50,000 |
How to Spot a Valuable 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
To find a rare coin:
- Check the Date: Look for “1964” on the front.
- Find Mint Marks: “D” (Denver) or none (Philadelphia) below JFK’s neck.
- Inspect for Silver: 90% silver coins are shinier, heavier (12.5 grams), with no copper edge.
- Look for Errors: Use a magnifying glass for doubled text, heavy hair details, or odd sizes.
- Check Condition: Unworn, shiny coins are worth more.
Where to Find These Coins
You might find them in:
- Pocket Change: Some still circulate, though rare.
- Coin Rolls: Get half-dollar rolls from banks to search.
- Old Collections: Check family coin jars or inherited stashes.
- Coin Shops or Auctions: Visit dealers or check eBay, Heritage Auctions, or GreatCollections.
What to Do If You Find One
- Don’t Clean It: Cleaning can scratch or dull the coin, lowering its value.
- Store Safely: Use a plastic coin holder to protect it.
- Get It Graded: Take it to PCGS or NGC for authentication and grading.
- Sell Smart: Use auction houses (Heritage Auctions), dealers (APMEX), or eBay with clear photos.
Avoiding Fakes
Fakes exist, with some altering coins to mimic errors. Check:
- Weight: Silver coins weigh 12.5 grams; clad coins are 11.34 grams.
- Details: Look for natural errors, not carved or tampered designs.
- Professional Grading: Only trust PCGS or NGC to confirm authenticity.
Conclusion
The $19 million 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is likely a myth, but rare versions like the SMS or double-die coins, worth up to $108,000, could still be in your change, coin rolls, or old jars. Check for “1964,” mint marks, silver content, or errors, and get finds graded by experts. Beware of fakes and enjoy the thrill of the hunt. Start searching your half dollars today—you might uncover a treasure!
FAQ
Is a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar really worth $19 million?
No, that’s likely exaggerated. A Special Mint Set coin sold for $108,000, and errors can reach $50,000.
Which 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are valuable?
Special Mint Set, double-die obverse, accented hair proof, and dime planchet errors are top finds.
Are these coins still in circulation?
Yes, some appear in pocket change, bank rolls, or old collections, but rare ones are scarce.
How do I spot a valuable 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar?
Check for “1964,” mint marks, 90% silver (12.5 grams), or errors like doubled text or heavy hair.
What should I do if I find a rare half dollar?
Don’t clean it, store it in a coin holder, get it graded by PCGS or NGC, and sell via auctions or dealers.