Most Kennedy Half Dollars are only worth 50 cents. But did you know that some rare versions of this iconic coin have sold for over $100,000? It’s true—while many of these coins are common, a few rare minting mistakes, unique features, and pristine conditions have made some Kennedy Half Dollars incredibly valuable.
Whether you’re a collector or someone casually going through loose change, here are 6 Kennedy Half Dollars worth more than $100,000—and tips to help you find out if you might be holding one.
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Accented Hair – Proof (PR68)
Value: Up to $150,000
This version features more detailed hair strands on Kennedy’s portrait. It was part of the early proof sets made in 1964 and was quickly replaced with a softer design, making it very rare.
Key Features:
- “Accented Hair” above Kennedy’s ear
- No “G” serif on “GOD” in the motto
- Only found in 1964 Proof Sets
Why It’s Valuable: Scarce design + limited production = big value. A high-grade proof (PR68) recently fetched nearly $150,000.
2. 1964 SMS (Special Strike) Kennedy Half Dollar
Value: Over $150,000
This coin is not a proof or a regular strike—it’s an SMS (Special Mint Strike) coin, which the Mint produced experimentally in 1964. Only a few known examples exist.
Key Features:
- Satin-like finish
- Sharper details than regular coins
- Extremely rare—possibly less than 20 known
Why It’s Valuable: Mystery surrounds its production, and its scarcity pushes auction prices past $150,000 for top-grade pieces.
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar (MS67+)
Value: Over $100,000
The 1970-D was the last year 40% silver Kennedy Half Dollars were minted, and they were only included in mint sets—none were released into circulation.
Key Features:
- Only minted in Denver in 1970
- 40% silver
- Not intended for public use
Why It’s Valuable: While most are worth $20–$50, flawless uncirculated examples (MS67 and above) are so rare that they can bring in over $100,000 at auction.
4. 1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar (SP69)
Value: $120,000+
This Special Mint Set coin has an amazing strike, flawless surfaces, and blazing luster. While 1967 SMS coins are not especially rare in general, finding one graded SP69 is extremely rare.
Key Features:
- Part of the 1967 Special Mint Set
- Nearly perfect condition required
Why It’s Valuable: Condition is everything. One coin graded SP69 by PCGS sold for more than $120,000.
5. 1968-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar (PR70 DCAM)
Value: $110,000+
This proof coin has a deep cameo finish, meaning it has frosty design elements against a mirror-like background. Only a handful have received a perfect PR70 grade.
Key Features:
- Deep Cameo Proof
- Perfect PR70 grade
- From San Francisco Mint
Why It’s Valuable: Most 1968-S proofs are worth just a few dollars, but in perfect condition, collectors are willing to pay over $110,000.
6. 1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar (SP70)
Value: $130,000+
This unique Kennedy Half Dollar came in a special two-coin set with a Robert F. Kennedy silver dollar. Unlike shiny proofs, it has a soft matte finish and was struck in very limited numbers.
Key Features:
- Matte finish
- Included only in special collector sets
- SP70 is a rare grade
Why It’s Valuable: Limited availability and the highest grade possible make this coin one of the most sought-after modern halves, valued at over $130,000 in SP70.
Tips for Identifying Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars
- Check the date: Rare years like 1964, 1970, and certain mint marks are worth inspecting closely.
- Look for special finishes: Proofs, SMS, and matte finishes are often more valuable.
- Get it graded: A coin grading service like PCGS or NGC can tell you if your coin meets the quality standards that increase its value.
- Condition matters: The closer to mint condition, the better the price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are Kennedy Half Dollars from circulation worth anything?
Most circulated Kennedy Half Dollars are worth their face value or slightly more. However, older ones from 1964 or special mint editions could be worth hundreds—or even over $100,000—in rare cases.
2. What does “SMS” or “SP” mean on a coin?
“SMS” stands for Special Mint Set, and “SP” means Specimen Strike—coins made with extra care but not quite proof-quality. These are usually more valuable due to limited production.
3. Where can I get my Kennedy Half Dollar appraised?
You can use professional coin grading services like PCGS or NGC, or visit a reputable local coin dealer for an evaluation.
4. What should I look for to know if my coin is valuable?
Key indicators include: low mintage years, mint marks, error coins, special finishes, and flawless condition (graded MS or PR 67+).