The Kennedy Half Dollar has long been a coin of intrigue and discussion, captivating collectors and casual enthusiasts alike. Minted in honor of President John F.
Kennedy after his assassination in 1963, these half dollars are not just historical tributes but also controversial pieces of currency. From material changes to limited editions, the Kennedy Half Dollar has seen its share of unique designs and striking errors that make certain versions exceptionally rare and valuable.
The Most Controversial Kennedy Half Dollars Ever Minted
1. 1964 Silver Kennedy Half Dollar
The inaugural Kennedy Half Dollar from 1964 was a tribute minted in 90% silver, a composition soon to change as the demand for silver surged.
This initial release faced controversy due to high silver content, causing hoarding and making it difficult for many Americans to find the coin in circulation. Today, the 1964 edition remains one of the most sought-after versions among collectors.
2. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
In 1970, the Denver Mint struck a unique version that marked the last 40% silver Kennedy Half Dollar. Released only in mint sets, it wasn’t available for general circulation. This restriction created scarcity, making the 1970-D a collector’s favorite and one of the most controversial due to its limited accessibility.
3. 1982 No-FG Kennedy Half Dollar
One of the most unusual and rare finds in the Kennedy Half Dollar series is the 1982 coin missing the “FG” initials of designer Frank Gasparro on the reverse side. This omission sparked interest as a mint error, and collectors continue to seek this version for its distinctive absence, adding value to its uniqueness.
4. 1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar holds a special place in the collection due to its unique appearance and limited production.
Only about 62,000 of these were minted, intended for a collector’s set honoring the 35th anniversary of Kennedy’s death. Its matte finish and low mintage make it an elusive find in the Kennedy series.
5. 1974-D Double Die Obverse Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1974-D Kennedy Half Dollar features one of the most intriguing and highly visible errors: the double die obverse.
With visible doubling on the words “In God We Trust” and “Liberty,” this coin became a point of interest due to its unintentional alteration. Double die coins are rare, and this example adds value and intrigue to the Kennedy Half Dollar legacy.
6. 2014-W 50th Anniversary Gold Kennedy Half Dollar
The 2014-W 50th Anniversary Kennedy Half Dollar is unique in its composition, minted in three-fourths of an ounce of pure gold. This coin not only celebrates 50 years of the Kennedy Half Dollar but also symbolizes a significant numismatic tribute, making it a memorable, collectible, and expensive addition to the series.
7. 1995-P Kennedy Half Dollar
Lastly, the 1995-P Kennedy Half Dollar earned its place due to an unusual abundance of high-quality strike examples that led to its unique appearance. This release features sharper detailing, and many collectors seek out the higher-grade versions, setting it apart in the collection for its pristine strike quality and collector’s appeal.
| Coin Name | Year of Issue | Unique Feature | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 Silver Kennedy Half Dollar | 1964 | 90% silver composition | Scarce in circulation |
| 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar | 1970 | Final 40% silver issue | Available in mint sets only |
| 1982 No-FG Kennedy Half Dollar | 1982 | Missing FG initials | Rare error |
| 1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar | 1998 | Special matte finish | Limited mintage |
| 1974-D Double Die Obverse Kennedy Half Dollar | 1974 | Double die obverse | Rare |
| 2014-W 50th Anniversary Gold Kennedy Half Dollar | 2014 | Gold composition | Commemorative |
| 1995-P Kennedy Half Dollar | 1995 | High-quality strike | Collector’s interest |
Collecting Kennedy Half Dollars provides not only a chance to own a piece of American history but also access to some of the most debated and rare coins in circulation. Each of these coins has a unique story that has contributed to its collectible status and higher market value over time.
FAQs
What makes the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar so valuable?
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar was minted with 90% silver, making it one of the last coins in circulation with a high silver content, which led to hoarding and scarcity.
How rare is the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar?
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is rare because it was only available in mint sets, and it marked the last of the 40% silver Kennedy Half Dollars.
Why does the 1982 Kennedy Half Dollar miss the FG initials?
This was a mint error that led to some 1982 Kennedy Half Dollars being struck without the “FG” initials of designer Frank Gasparro, making these coins rare and valuable.
What distinguishes the 1998-S Matte Finish Kennedy Half Dollar?
Its special matte finish and limited mintage set the 1998-S apart, making it a sought-after collector’s item.
Is the 2014-W Gold Kennedy Half Dollar intended for circulation?
No, it was produced as a commemorative piece in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Kennedy Half Dollar series.
