Half dollar coins don’t show up much in everyday spending, but some are surprisingly valuable. While most people overlook them, coin collectors know certain half dollars can be worth well over their face value.
Whether it’s due to silver content, low mintage, or a minting error, some half dollars could earn you a decent profit.
Here’s a breakdown of nine half dollar coins that might just be sitting in your change jar—and what makes them special.
Table of Content
1964 Kennedy
This was the first year the Kennedy half dollar was issued, created in honor of President John F. Kennedy after his assassination.
Key Details:
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Mintage: Over 273 million
- Value: Around $10 for average condition; more for uncirculated or rare varieties
Accented
The 1964 “Accented Hair” proof version features more pronounced hair above Kennedy’s ear and is highly collectible.
Key Details:
- Unique Look: Sharper, bolder hair strands
- Mintage: Around 100,000
- Value: Between $100 and $500
1970-D
This half dollar was never released into general circulation. It was only available through mint sets, making it rare.
Key Details:
- Mint Mark: “D” for Denver
- Mintage: 2.15 million
- Value: $20 to $50 if uncirculated
1987
In 1987, half dollars were not released to the public and only came in mint sets. That limited availability adds collector appeal.
Key Details:
- Mint Marks: “P” and “D”
- Mintage: About 2.89 million each
- Value: $2 to $5 when uncirculated
1998-S
This coin features a matte finish and was part of a two-coin set honoring Robert F. Kennedy. It looks different than typical shiny proofs.
Key Details:
- Special Finish: Matte, not glossy
- Mintage: 62,000
- Value: $100 to $200
2001-P
While not extremely rare, the 2001-P half dollar has a relatively low mintage compared to nearby years.
Key Details:
- Mint Mark: “P” for Philadelphia
- Mintage: 19.5 million
- Value: $2 to $5 for uncirculated pieces
2002-2020
Known as “NIFC” (Not Intended for Circulation) coins, these half dollars were made only for collectors and not released into general use.
Key Details:
- Access: Found only in mint or collector sets
- Value: $2 to $5 if in mint condition
1966 SMS No FG
Some 1966 Special Mint Set half dollars are missing the “FG” initials (for designer Frank Gasparro) near the eagle’s tail on the reverse side.
Key Details:
- Error Type: Missing initials
- Value: $50 to $150 depending on condition
1974-D DDO
The 1974-D Kennedy half dollar has a well-known double die error on the front side, where the text and Kennedy’s profile appear doubled.
Key Details:
- Error: Doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST” and Kennedy’s features
- Value: $50 to $100 depending on clarity
| Year | Coin Type | Key Feature | Mintage | Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | Kennedy Half Dollar | 90% Silver Composition | 273 million | $10+ |
| 1964 | “Accented Hair” Proof | Distinct Hair Details | 100,000 | $100 – $500 |
| 1970-D | Kennedy Half Dollar | Not Released for Circulation | 2.15 million | $20 – $50 |
| 1987 P&D | Kennedy Half Dollars | Mint Set Only | 2.89 million each | $2 – $5 |
| 1998-S | Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar | Special Matte Finish | 62,000 | $100 – $200 |
| 2001-P | Kennedy Half Dollar | Low Mintage | 19.5 million | $2 – $5 |
| 2002–2020 | “NIFC” Kennedy Half Dollars | Collector-Only Production | Varies | $2 – $5 |
| 1966 | SMS Half Dollar (No FG) | Missing “FG” Initials | Unknown | $50 – $150 |
| 1974-D | Double Die Obverse Half Dollar | Doubling on Obverse | Unknown | $50 – $100 |
Half dollar coins are more than just pocket change—they’re little time capsules with hidden value. Whether it’s a special edition, a rare error, or just a coin with a high silver content, you could be holding onto something worth much more than 50 cents.
So next time you get a half dollar, take a closer look—you might just uncover a small treasure.
FAQs
What is the rarest Kennedy half dollar?
The 1964 “Accented Hair” proof is among the rarest.
What does NIFC mean for half dollars?
Not Intended for Circulation—only made for collectors.
Are all 1964 Kennedy half dollars silver?
Yes, they contain 90% silver and are highly valued.
How can I tell if I have a valuable half dollar?
Check the date, mint mark, and for unique features or errors.
Where can I sell rare half dollar coins?
Online marketplaces, coin shops, or coin shows are best.
