But why?
If you want to know how much a Kennedy Half Dollar is worth, it's good to know these things:
The composition of the john f Kennedy 50 cent coin value has changed significantly, influencing its price:
Mint marks identify the production facility. They are typically on the obverse above the date (1968–present) or on the reverse below the eagle's claw (1964).
Mintage figures vary. Early issues (e.g., 1964: 429M, 1976: 521M) had high production. Post-2001 are primarily collector-only, except for limited circulation from 2021–2023. The 1970 and 1987 issues were only available in sets. The 1969 50 cent coin value for these specific issues can be higher due to their limited distribution in sets.
Understanding the weight and composition is crucial for determining melt value, especially for silver-containing ones.
This is how much the silver in the token might be worth if you melt them down. We imagine silver costs $36 for one ounce.
| Year | Silver in Grams | How Much It's Worth Now |
|---|---|---|
| 1964 | 11.25 grams | $13.02 |
| 1965–1970 | 4.60 grams | $5.32 |
Most examples exceed melt price due to numismatic demand, especially those in better condition or with specific varieties. The 1964 50 cent coin value in good condition will almost invariably be higher than its melt due to strong collector interest.
Only severely damaged ones might be worth just their melt value. This highlights why the 50 cent silver coin value is a strong baseline, but not the only determinant of a comprehensive worth.
The 50 cent coin value chart below provides estimated prices for common Kennedy Half Dollar issues in various conditions for 2025.
Professionally graded coins (PCGS/NGC) typically command higher prices. The 1966 50 cent coin value is an example of 40% silver coins whose prices are reflected in this chart.
| Name | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1964 P (90% Silver, MS-65) | $25.00 |
| 1964 D (90% Silver, MS-65) | $25.00 |
| 1964 S (90% Silver Proof, PR-65) | $30.00 |
| 1965 P (40% Silver, MS-65) | $12.00 |
| 1966 P (40% Silver, MS-65) | $12.00 |
| 1967 P (40% Silver, MS-65) | $12.00 |
| 1968 D (40% Silver, MS-65) | $12.00 |
| 1969 D (40% Silver, MS-65) | $12.00 |
| 1970 D (40% Silver, MS-65) | $25.00 |
| 1971 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1972 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1974 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1976 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1976 S (40% Silver Proof, PR-65) | $10.00 |
| 1979 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1980 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1983 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1984 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1985 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1989 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1992 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1993 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1995 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1996 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1997 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 1998 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
| 2023 P (Copper-Nickel, MS-65) | $1.50 |
Certain errors and varieties can dramatically increase the price of a Kennedy Half Dollar.
1968 Mexican 50-centavo coins (copper-nickel, 6g, 25mm) feature José María Morelos. They were minted in Mexico City (no mint mark).
Prices
Prices (2025):
Numismatics often shows connections between different series.
However, both can have high error prices (e.g., SBA quarter planchet: $440; Kennedy 1974-D DDO: $1,500).
The 1979 50 cent coin value for a regular Kennedy Half Dollar is its face value.
Identifying valuable Kennedy Half Dollars requires a keen eye and basic knowledge.
The Kennedy Half Dollar is more than currency; it's a piece of American history. From its 1964 memorial striking to its composition changes and errors, each aspect adds to its appeal. While many modern issues are face value, earlier silver and error pieces can command premiums. Understanding its history, design, composition, and errors is essential for assessing its true worth.
Modern Mexican 50-centavo ones(made after 1992) are usually worth only a few U.S. cents because of the exchange rate (about $0.03-$0.10 USD). Older ones, like some from 1968, might be worth $0.10-$0.50 if they've been used, or up to $5 if they are unused. Mistakes can also make them worth more.
Price increases with production anomalies like doubled dies or off-center strikes (e.g., $25-$100+ for severe errors). Mint State (MS-65+) examples fetch $3-$15, with MS-67+ reaching $50+.
Price is driven by minting errors or scarce die varieties. MS-65+ ones sell for $3-$12. Significant errors can range from $20-$150+.
Premiums are for notable mint errors ($20-$100+) or exceptional Mint State grades (MS-66+; e.g., $20-$40 for MS-67).
Only a significant verifiable mint error would increase value ($25-$100+). MS-65 to MS-67 examples might bring $3-$20.
Minting mistakes like doubled dies can lead to values of $15-$75+. MS-65+ examples are $2-$10, with MS-67+ possibly $20-$50.
Usually $0.50. But if any rare errors (like a strong doubled die or off-center strike) are found, its value could see a boost among collectors, potentially ranging from $20-$100+. MS-65 to MS-66 uncirculated ones are $2-$8.
Typically $0.50. A significant mint error could raise value to $20-$75+. Uncirculated MS-65 is $1-$3, while MS-67 might be $15-$30.
Errors can elevate prices to $15-$75+. 'S' mint mark proof in perfect condition (PF-69 Ultra Cameo) are $10-$50, with PF-70 Ultra Cameo reaching $75-$200+.
Price beyond this is due to extremely rare and significant mint errors ($50 to several hundred dollars) or perfect proof (PF-70 Ultra Cameo; $20-$50).
The overall numismatic price of a Kennedy Half Dollar is a complex blend of several critical factors,while a common circulated money is $0.50, an MS-67 can be $10-$50+