These 6 Kennedy Half Dollars Could Make You a Millionaire: For many people, pocket change is just that—change. But for coin collectors and lucky treasure hunters, a simple half dollar could be worth thousands, even millions. The Kennedy half dollar, first minted in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, is still circulating today. However, not all of these coins are created equal. A few rare versions are incredibly valuable, and surprisingly, some are still found in everyday circulation.
Let’s take a look at six Kennedy half dollars that could make you rich if you’re lucky enough to find them.
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (Accented Hair Variety)
The very first Kennedy half dollars were struck in 1964, and a special variety known as the “Accented Hair” design has become a prized possession for collectors. This version was part of the first strike and features more detail in Kennedy’s hair above his ear. Only a limited number were made before the design was changed, making it rare.
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Value: Up to $5,000+
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Tip: Look for sharper hair details and missing serif on the “I” in LIBERTY.
2. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver)
All 1964 Kennedy half dollars were minted in 90% silver. While not as rare as the Accented Hair variety, the intrinsic silver value and collector interest still make this a sought-after coin. These are especially valuable in high-grade condition.
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Value: $10 – $200+ (common), up to $1,500+ (mint state)
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Tip: If your 1964 half dollar doesn’t stick to a magnet and feels heavier, it may be silver.
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1970-D (Denver Mint) half dollar was never released into general circulation. Instead, it was only included in special Mint Sets. Despite this, some have escaped and ended up in circulation.
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Value: $25 – $1,000+
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Tip: Look for a small “D” mint mark on the reverse.
4. 1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar with Missing FG Initials
In 1966, some Special Mint Set (SMS) coins were struck with an error: the designer’s initials “FG” (for Frank Gasparro) were missing. This was due to excessive polishing of the die.
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Value: Up to $2,500+
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Tip: Check the reverse near the tail feathers—if “FG” is missing, you might have a winner.
5. 1974-D Kennedy Half Dollar Double Die Obverse
Double die errors occur when a coin is struck more than once with slightly misaligned dies, creating a doubled image. The 1974-D Kennedy half dollar has a well-known doubled die on the obverse (front) of the coin.
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Value: $100 – $1,500+
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Tip: Look for doubling in the word “TRUST” or “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
6. 1982-P No FG Kennedy Half Dollar
Another error variety, this 1982 half dollar from the Philadelphia Mint is missing the designer’s initials on the reverse. Unlike the 1966 version, this wasn’t a special mint issue and is even rarer to find in circulation.
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Value: $250 – $3,000+
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Tip: Examine the reverse side—no “FG” under the right leg of the eagle.
Table: Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars
| Year | Key Feature | Mint Mark | Approx. Value | Rarity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | Accented Hair | No mark | Up to $5,000+ | Rare |
| 1964 | 90% Silver | No mark | $10 – $1,500+ | Common-Collectible |
| 1970-D | Mint Set only | D | $25 – $1,000+ | Scarce |
| 1966 | SMS, No FG Initials | No mark | Up to $2,500+ | Rare |
| 1974-D | Double Die Obverse | D | $100 – $1,500+ | Rare |
| 1982-P | No FG Initials | P | $250 – $3,000+ | Very Rare |
Final Thought
Who knew that hidden treasures could still be found in your spare change? While Kennedy half dollars are not as common in circulation today, they are still produced and sometimes handed out by banks or found in coin rolls. Keeping an eye out for these six rare coins could pay off in a big way. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious beginner, it’s worth checking your change—your next Kennedy half dollar might just make you a millionaire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Are Kennedy half dollars still made today?
Yes, the U.S. Mint still produces Kennedy half dollars, though most are not released into general circulation. They are sold in special sets and rolls.
Q2: How can I tell if my Kennedy half dollar is silver?
Check the date. All 1964 Kennedy halves are 90% silver. From 1965–1970, they contain 40% silver. Use a scale or magnet—silver coins are heavier and non-magnetic.
Q3: Can I find valuable half dollars at the bank?
Yes, some collectors search bank coin rolls or request half dollars at branches. It’s rare, but valuable coins still occasionally appear.
Q4: What tools can help me check my coins?
A magnifying glass, digital scale, and a coin reference book or website are helpful. Also, apps like PCGS CoinFacts and NGC Coin Explorer are great for identifying and valuing coins.
Q5: Is it legal to sell valuable coins found in circulation?
Yes, it is completely legal. Once a coin is in circulation, it becomes your property to sell or collect.