The 1964 JFK Half-Dollar is not only a significant piece of American history but also a highly sought-after coin among collectors.
Its value can vary widely, with some reaching up to $40,000. The factors that contribute to this coin’s high value include its historical significance, silver content, condition, and rarity of certain minting errors.
What Makes the 1964 JFK Half-Dollar So Valuable?
1. Historical Significance
The 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar was the first coin issued after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination in 1963. It was created as a tribute to the late president, and its release only months after his death added emotional and historical weight to the coin.
Due to its immediate popularity, it was heavily hoarded by the public, adding to its long-term appeal among collectors.
2. 90% Silver Composition
The 1964 JFK Half-Dollar is one of the last U.S. coins struck with 90% silver. Each coin contains approximately 0.36169 ounces of pure silver, which gives it an intrinsic value linked to silver prices.
With silver hovering around $20 to $30 per ounce in recent years, the melt value alone makes this coin worth much more than its face value of 50 cents.
3. Minting and Variants
There were four primary versions of the 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar: the Philadelphia Mint, Denver Mint, proof versions, and the heavily accented hair proof variety.
The Denver Mint produced around 156 million coins, while Philadelphia struck over 273 million, making these versions less rare but still valuable depending on condition.
- Proof Coins: Around 3.9 million proof coins were struck, and these can fetch higher prices than their circulated counterparts. Proof coins with certain characteristics, such as deep cameo finishes, are even more desirable.
- Accented Hair Variety: One of the most notable variants of the 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar is the “accented hair” proof version. These coins show more pronounced hair details on Kennedy’s head, particularly above the ear. The variety was discontinued early in production, making it rare and valuable, with some coins reaching tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
4. Condition and Grading
The value of a 1964 JFK Half-Dollar is heavily dependent on its condition. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70 by professional services such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).
Higher-grade coins, especially those in Mint State 65 (MS65) or above, command significant premiums.
- MS65 coins can sell for $100 to $500, depending on the market.
- MS67 coins are much rarer and have fetched up to $22,000 at auction.
- Proof coins in PR68 condition or higher can fetch even more, with certain specimens going for up to $40,000 due to their pristine condition and rarity.
5. Mint Errors
Mint errors add substantial value to coins, and the 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar is no exception. Some of the most valuable errors include doubled die obverses, off-center strikes, and other anomalies during the minting process.
These errors are rare, but when found, they can exponentially increase the coin’s value, with some error coins selling for thousands of dollars.
| Factor | Description | Estimated Value (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Silver Content | Contains 0.36169 oz of 90% silver | $8 – $15 (based on silver) |
| Proof Coin (PR65 or higher) | Rare, high-grade proof coins with deep cameo finish | $200 – $40,000 |
| Mint State (MS65 or higher) | Uncirculated, high-grade coins with minimal wear | $500 – $22,000 |
| Accented Hair Variety | Rare variant with unique hair details on Kennedy’s portrait | $1,500 – $15,000 |
| Mint Errors (Doubled Die, etc.) | Rare minting errors, including doubled dies and off-center strikes | $2,000 – $40,000 |
Conclusion
The 1964 JFK Half-Dollar holds a special place in U.S. numismatic history due to its connection to a beloved president, its silver content, and its various rare versions.
Whether you are a coin collector or an investor, finding a high-grade 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar can be a rewarding experience, with some coins fetching as much as $40,000. Its lasting value makes it an essential addition to any serious coin collection.
FAQs
Why is the 1964 JFK Half-Dollar valuable?
The 1964 JFK Half-Dollar is valuable due to its 90% silver content, historical significance as the first coin minted after JFK’s assassination, and its collector demand. Rare varieties and mint errors further increase its value.
How much is a regular 1964 JFK Half-Dollar worth?
In circulated condition, a 1964 JFK Half-Dollar is worth about $8 to $15 based on its silver content. Uncirculated or proof coins in top condition can be worth significantly more, with some fetching over $40,000 at auction.
What is the “Accented Hair” Kennedy Half-Dollar?
The “Accented Hair” is a rare proof variant of the 1964 JFK Half-Dollar, where Kennedy’s hair is more detailed above his ear. This version was discontinued early in production, making it a prized find among collectors.
What mint marks should I look for on a 1964 JFK Half-Dollar?
Mint marks for the 1964 JFK Half-Dollar are located on the reverse, below the eagle. Coins from Philadelphia do not have a mint mark, while those from Denver have a “D.” San Francisco produced only proofs, marked with an “S.”
Where can I sell my 1964 JFK Half-Dollar?
You can sell your 1964 JFK Half-Dollar through reputable coin dealers, online auction sites like eBay, or at numismatic auctions. It’s recommended to have your coin graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC before selling to ensure you get the best value.
References
- Benzinga, “JFK Half Dollar Value Simplified (1964),” 2024.
- GBF News, “Why This 1964 JFK Half-Dollar is Worth Up to $40,000?” 2024.
- CoinValues, “1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Values and Prices,” 2024.
- Chronicle Collectibles, “Why Is The 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar So Valuable?” 2024.