The Kennedy Half Dollar has captured the imagination of collectors since its debut in 1964. While most of these coins are worth face value or a bit more for silver content, some rare editions and mint errors can fetch tens of thousands of dollars at auction — with the most valuable reaching prices near $156,000.
Here are the top 7 most valuable Kennedy Half Dollars you should look out for, plus what makes each one so incredibly valuable.
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (Accented Hair Proof) – Up to $156,000
- Type: Proof coin
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Notable Feature: “Accented Hair” above Kennedy’s ear, visible separation in the hair strands
- Why It’s Valuable: Only produced briefly before design changes; highly sought by collectors
- Record Sale: A perfect PR70 Deep Cameo sold for $156,000 at auction
Tip: Look for extra detail in the hair and a missing serif on the “I” in LIBERTY.
2. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar – Up to $12,000
- Type: Circulation strike
- Mint: Denver
- Mintage: Only 2.1 million (lowest of any regular-issue Kennedy half dollar)
- Why It’s Valuable: Only available in Mint Sets, not released into circulation
- Record Sale: MS67 examples have sold for over $12,000
Tip: Look for high-grade versions with clean surfaces and full luster.
3. 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Kennedy Half Dollar – Up to $47,000
- Type: Experimental or prototype
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Why It’s Valuable: Only a handful exist (possibly fewer than 20)
- Record Sale: One sold for $47,000 at Heritage Auctions
Tip: These coins have a satin-like finish and lack standard proof or business strike characteristics.
4. 1998-S Kennedy Half Dollar (Matte Finish) – Up to $4,000
- Type: Special collector issue
- Mint: San Francisco
- Why It’s Valuable: Only available in a special two-coin set with a silver dollar
- Record Sale: High-grade examples have sold for $3,000–$4,000
Tip: Look for matte texture rather than mirror-like surfaces of standard proofs.
5. 1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar (Cameo or Deep Cameo) – Up to $3,500
- Type: Special Mint Set (SMS)
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Why It’s Valuable: Rare in Deep Cameo finish with sharp contrast between frosted design and mirrored background
- Record Sale: PR68 Deep Cameo sold for $3,500
Tip: Deep Cameos are rare for SMS coins. High contrast = high value.
6. 1974-D Kennedy Half Dollar (Doubled Die Obverse) – Up to $2,000
- Type: Error coin
- Mint: Denver
- Why It’s Valuable: Rare doubling in date and “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- Record Sale: MS66+ examples sold for $2,000 or more
Tip: Use a magnifier to check for clear doubling in the lettering.
7. 1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar (Cameo or Deep Cameo) – Up to $2,500
- Type: Special Mint Set
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Why It’s Valuable: Deep Cameo strikes are rare and highly collectible
- Record Sale: PR68 Deep Cameo sold for $2,500
Tip: Again, condition and contrast make all the difference in value.
Final Thoughts: Could You Have a Valuable Kennedy Half Dollar?
While most Kennedy halves aren’t rare, high grades, proof versions, mint errors, and special finishes can make some coins worth thousands — even over $150,000. If you’ve got old change, inherited collections, or U.S. Mint sets, it’s worth taking a closer look.