Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 to Date)

The Kennedy Half Dollar, first issued in 1964 after the death of President Kennedy, was struck in 90% silver in 1964 and in lower-silver and clad metals afterward.
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Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 to Date)

Obverse (Front) Design

A right-facing portrait of President John F. Kennedy, with LIBERTY above and IN GOD WE TRUST below.
Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 to Date)

Reverse (Back) Design

A heraldic eagle based on the presidential coat of arms, surrounded by stars.
Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 to Date) rev

Coin Specifications

Date Range

1964 to date

Denomination

50 Cents (Half Dollar)

Designer / Engraver

Gilroy Roberts (obverse), Frank Gasparro (reverse)

Mints

Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco

Composition

1964: 90% silver. 1965–1970: 40% silver clad. 1971 on: copper-nickel clad

Precious Metal Content

1964: about 0.3617 troy oz of silver. 1965–1970: about 0.1479 troy oz of silver

Weight

12.5 g (1964); 11.5 g (1965–1970); 11.34 g (1971 on)

Diameter

30.6 mm

Edge

Reeded

Mintage

—

History & Background

President John F. Kennedy was assassinated on November 22, 1963. Within weeks, Congress approved a new half dollar in his memory, and the coins were first released in early 1964. The obverse was prepared by Mint Chief Engraver Gilroy Roberts, and the reverse by Frank Gasparro.

The coin was very popular and many people saved them, so 1964 half dollars are easy to find today. The 1964 coins contain 90% silver. From 1965 to 1970 the silver content was reduced to 40%, and from 1971 the coin has been made of copper-nickel clad metal.

The coin remains in production, mostly for collectors, and special versions have been issued over the years.

Collecting Tips

  • Check the date: 1964 coins are 90% silver, 1965–1970 are 40% silver, and later coins have no silver in the regular issue.
  • Silver content is the main reason older Kennedy halves trade above face value.
  • Heavily worn coins are usually worth only their metal value.

Photographs by Grade

Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 to Date) MS64 obverse
MS64
Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 to Date) MS65 obverse
MS65
Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 to Date) MS66 obverse
MS66
Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 to Date) MS67 obverse
MS67
Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 to Date) MS68 obverse
MS68

Frequently Asked Questions about the Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 to Date)

Are Kennedy half dollars silver?

Only some. 1964 coins are 90% silver and 1965–1970 coins are 40% silver. Coins from 1971 on in the regular issue are copper-nickel.

How much silver is in a 1964 Kennedy half dollar?

About 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver.

Why were Kennedy half dollars made?

To honor President John F. Kennedy after his death in November 1963.

More Half Dollars

  • Franklin Half Dollar (1948-1963)

    1948–1963 · 50 Cents (Half Dollar) · 90% silver, 10% copper

    The Franklin Half Dollar, struck 1948 to 1963 in 90% silver, features Benjamin Franklin and the Liberty Bell and is popular with silver collectors.

  • Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947)

    1916–1947 · 50 Cents (Half Dollar) · 90% silver, 10% copper

    The Walking Liberty Half Dollar, struck 1916 to 1947, is a 90% silver coin often listed among the most beautiful United States coins.

See all Half Dollars →

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