The Kennedy Half Dollar, introduced in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, has become a staple in American coinage. While many of these coins are common, certain rare varieties can be worth significantly more than their face value.
A keen eye might just spot one of these treasures in everyday transactions. Here are the top three rare Kennedy Half Dollars that could be hiding in your change:
1. 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1964 Accented Hair Proof is a notable variety among Kennedy Half Dollars. This coin features a distinct design element: a more pronounced tuft of hair above Kennedy’s ear. Additionally, the lower left serif of the “I” in “LIBERTY” appears truncated or missing.
It’s believed that approximately 100,000 of these coins were minted before the design was altered, making them relatively scarce. Collectors value this variety for its unique design and limited mintage.
2. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar holds a special place among collectors due to its limited release. Struck exclusively at the Denver Mint, this coin was not released into general circulation but was instead included in special mint sets.
Composed of 40% silver, it marked the end of an era for silver coinage in half dollars. Its limited mintage and silver content contribute to its desirability and higher value in the numismatic community.
3. 1982-P No FG Kennedy Half Dollar
A fascinating error coin, the 1982-P No FG Kennedy Half Dollar, lacks the “FG” initials of designer Frank Gasparro on the reverse side.
This omission is attributed to over-polished dies during the minting process, resulting in the disappearance of the initials. Coins exhibiting this error are rare, and their scarcity makes them particularly valuable to collectors.
Rare Kennedy Half Dollars
| Coin Type | Year | Mint Mark | Distinctive Feature | Estimated Mintage | Composition | Notable Value Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accented Hair Proof | 1964 | None | Pronounced hair above ear; altered “I” | ~100,000 | 90% Silver | Unique design; limited mintage |
| 1970-D | 1970 | D | Not released for circulation; 40% silver | Limited | 40% Silver | Limited release; end of silver era |
| No FG Error | 1982 | P | Missing “FG” initials on reverse | Rare | Clad | Minting error; collector interest |
The allure of coin collecting lies in the thrill of uncovering hidden gems in everyday places. The 1964 Accented Hair Proof, 1970-D, and 1982-P No FG Kennedy Half Dollars exemplify how attention to detail can lead to valuable finds.
By familiarizing yourself with these distinctive features and diligently examining your change, you might just stumble upon a numismatic treasure.
FAQs
How can I identify the 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar?
Look for a more pronounced tuft of hair above Kennedy’s ear and a truncated or missing lower left serif on the “I” in “LIBERTY.” These features distinguish the Accented Hair variety from the standard 1964 Proof.
Why is the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar considered rare?
The 1970-D was not released into general circulation but was included only in special mint sets. Its limited mintage and 40% silver composition make it a sought-after piece among collectors.
What does “No FG” mean on the 1982-P Kennedy Half Dollar?
“No FG” refers to the absence of designer Frank Gasparro’s initials (“FG”) on the reverse side of the coin, a result of over-polished dies during minting. This error increases the coin’s rarity and value.
Are these rare Kennedy Half Dollars still found in circulation?
While uncommon, it’s possible to find these rare varieties in circulation. Regularly checking half dollars received in change or from bank rolls can yield surprising discoveries.