1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar – Do You Have This Precious Coin?
Imagine if you suddenly found out that an old coin lying in your pocket could be worth millions!
This is what happened when a rare 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar recently sold for $156,000 (approximately Rs 1.3 crore) at auction. This record-breaking sale has sparked great curiosity among coin collectors and common people.
Can you also have such a rare and valuable coin? Let us know the history of this special coin, its rarity, ways to identify and its price in this guide.
History of Kennedy Half-Dollar
In 1964, after the assassination of US President John F. Kennedy, this coin was issued to pay tribute to him.
- It was introduced by the US Mint to replace the Franklin Half-Dollar.
- The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Kennedy looking to the left, designed by Gilroy Roberts.
- The reverse features an eagle designed by Frank Gasparro.
- The 1964 version is special because it was made of 90% silver. Later, due to a rise in the price of silver, most of the coins were melted down, making the higher grade coins rare.
Why did this coin sell for $156,000?
Out of all Kennedy half-dollars minted in 1964 there is a specific SMS variety which stands out due to its value.
This particular SMS coin fetched such a high price at auction because:
- The surface finish is different, giving it a special shiny look.
- Design details are sharper.
- There are no scratches or other marks on it because it was handled with special care.
- These coins were produced in very limited numbers, making them extremely rare.
How to tell if your 1964 Kennedy half-dollar is rare?
If you think you might have this coin, pay attention to the following:
- Finish: A genuine SMS coin has a light satiny sheen.
- Details: The coin’s design is very sharp and clear.
- Markings: If the coin has no scratches, dents, or other marks, it may be rare.
- Weight and content: It should weigh 12.5 grams and be 90% silver and 10% copper.
If your coin has all of these qualities, it’s a good idea to have it certified by a professional grading service.
Are common 1964 Kennedy half-dollars valuable?
Even if you don’t have the rare SMS version, a 1964 Kennedy half-dollar may be worth something since it contains silver.
- Silver Content: Each coin contains 0.3617 troy ounces of silver.
- Silver Value: As of 2024, its melting price can be around $8.63 (₹700) per coin.
- Excellent Condition Coins: Unworn coins can be worth $12 to $15 (₹1000 to ₹1300).
- Proof Editions: These coins were made for collectors and can be worth more.
Tips for Coin Collectors
If you are a coin enthusiast or want to invest, keep these things in mind:
1. Identify Your Coins
- Normal Coins: Are valuable based on the price of silver only.
- Proof Coins: Are made for collectors and can be worth more.
- SMS Coins: Are rare and highly valuable.
2. Get the coins graded
If you think you have a rare coin, contact these institutions to get it certified:
- Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS)
- Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC)
3. Store properly
- Keep coins in coin holders or slabs to keep them safe.
- Avoid touching with hands, as skin oil can damage the coins.
- Store in a dry and cool place, so that they remain safe for a long time.
4. Buy and sell from the right place
If you want to buy or sell coins, always trust authentic sources:
- Auction Houses: like Stack’s Bowers, Heritage Auctions.
- Certified Coin Dealers
- Online Marketplaces: like eBay, Great Collections.
Key Facts About the 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Coin | 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar |
| Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Notable Variant | Special Mint Set (SMS) with satin finish |
| Record Sale | $156,000 at Stack’s Bowers auction (2019) |
| Rarity | Only a few SMS coins are known to exist |
| Value of Regular 1964 Coins | $8.63 (melt value), up to $15 for uncirculated versions |
| Identification Tips | Satin finish, sharp details, absence of contact marks |
| Where to Sell | Coin dealers, auctions, online marketplaces |
Conclusion – Do you also have this rare coin?
The 1964 Kennedy half-dollar is a unique coin in terms of both history and value.
- Most coins are valuable simply because of their silver value, but the SMS version can reach six-digit prices.
- If you find a 1964 Kennedy half-dollar, get it inspected and professionally graded if necessary.
- With the right information and due diligence, this coin can be a great asset to you.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my 1964 Kennedy half-dollar is valuable?
If it has a satin finish, sharp details, and no markings, it may be rare. It’s best to have it certified.
2. Where can I sell my coin?
You can sell it at auction houses, certified coin dealers, or online marketplaces like eBay.
3. Is every 1964 Kennedy half-dollar rare?
No, only the SMS version is extremely rare and valuable. The value of other coins depends primarily on their silver content.