Imagine discovering a coin in your pocket that’s worth more than your car or even your house. That’s the magic of rare Kennedy Half Dollars. While most of these coins are only worth their face value of 50 cents, a few special ones have fetched eye-popping sums at auction.
Minted to honor President John F. Kennedy after his assassination in 1963, the Kennedy Half Dollar was first issued in 1964 and has remained a collector favorite ever since. While millions were produced, certain rare varieties and minting errors are now worth thousands or even millions of dollars.
If you’ve got a stash of coins at home or you occasionally receive half dollars in change, it’s worth knowing what to look for. Here are six Kennedy Half Dollars that could turn up in your change and change your life.
1. 1964 Accented Hair Kennedy Half Dollar
One of the most sought-after early varieties is the 1964 “Accented Hair” Kennedy Half Dollar. What makes this coin special is a unique detail in Kennedy’s hair, right above his ear, which appears thicker and more defined than usual.
This design was part of the original minting, but it’s believed that Jacqueline Kennedy requested a change, leading to its short production run. Only a limited number were minted before the hair detail was softened.
- Estimated Value: Up to $10,000+ in top condition
- How to Spot It: Look closely at Kennedy’s hair above the ear it should appear more pronounced or “accented.”
2. 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar is one of the rarest and most mysterious coins in U.S. numismatic history. These coins were never released to the public and were struck with a mirror-like proof finish and sharp design details.
Only a handful of these coins are known to exist some believe fewer than 20 authentic specimens survive. One was sold at auction for more than $47,000.
- Estimated Value: Over $47,000
- How to Spot It: Look for an unusually shiny, high-detail finish even on what appears to be a circulated coin.
3. 1964-D Doubled Die Obverse
Mint errors can turn an ordinary coin into a treasure, and the 1964-D Doubled Die Obverse Kennedy Half Dollar is a perfect example. This error happens when the coin’s design is struck twice slightly off-alignment, creating a doubled image on the front of the coin.
This particular error is incredibly rare. In top-grade condition, it once sold for a whopping $1.9 million.
- Estimated Value: Up to $1.9 million
- How to Spot It: Use a magnifying glass to check Kennedy’s face and the lettering on the front of the coin for signs of doubling.
4. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
While not from 1964, the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is another valuable find. It was only released in special mint sets and not meant for general circulation but a few somehow ended up in public hands.
Collectors love this coin because of its limited mintage, and in top condition, it can bring in thousands.
- Estimated Value: Several thousand dollars
- How to Spot It: Look for the date 1970 and a “D” mintmark just below Kennedy’s neck.
5. 1995-S Silver Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Not all valuable Kennedy Half Dollars are from the 1960s or ‘70s. The 1995-S Silver Proof version is a modern rarity. With a low mintage of just 679,985, this proof coin was made for collectors and features a deep mirror finish.
When preserved in perfect condition, it can be worth over $6,000.
- Estimated Value: $6,000+
- How to Spot It: Look for the “S” mintmark and an ultra-shiny, mirror-like surface.
6. Off-Center Strikes and Other Mint Errors
Sometimes mistakes from the U.S. Mint make coins more valuable, not less. Kennedy Half Dollars with unusual errors such as off-center strikes, clipped planchets, or die breaks are rare and highly collectible.
Some of the most valuable examples combine rarity, condition, and extreme error types. Even a basic off-center strike can be worth hundreds, while more dramatic errors can reach thousands.
- Estimated Value: Varies hundreds to thousands
- How to Spot It: Look for coins with shifted designs, missing parts, or abnormal shapes.
How to Check If You Have a Rare Kennedy Half Dollar?
If you’re sorting through your coin jar or you’ve just received a Kennedy Half Dollar in change, here’s how to quickly check its value:
- Look at the date: Key years include 1964, 1970, and 1995
- Check the mint mark: Found just below Kennedy’s neck on the front
- Inspect for errors: Use a magnifying glass to check for doubling or misalignment
- Note the shine: Coins with a mirror finish may be special proof or SMS versions
If you think you have something valuable, don’t clean the coin. Instead, take it to a reputable coin dealer or get it graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC.
Why Kennedy Half Dollars Are Still Worth Watching
Even though they’re no longer minted for general circulation, Kennedy Half Dollars are still legal tender and show up occasionally in bank rolls, coin machines, or inherited collections.
Many people have discovered rare and valuable coins in the most unexpected places couch cushions, glove compartments, or family piggy banks.
So next time you spot a half dollar, take a closer look. You just might be holding a coin worth more than gold.