How to Spot the Rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Worth Over $950,000

Rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Worth Over $950,000: The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is one of the most iconic coins in American history. It was minted just months after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination and became a symbol of remembrance. While millions of these coins were made, a few rare versions are worth far more than face value—one particular variety is valued at over $950,000!

If you’re curious about how to tell whether you have a rare and valuable 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, read on. This article will guide you through the key features that make this coin so special, how to identify it, and why it’s worth so much.

Why the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is Special

The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar was the first year this coin was produced. It was struck in 90% silver and 10% copper, unlike later versions that contained less or no silver. Over 400 million coins were minted, so most are worth only their silver content (about $10–$15). However, a few rare varieties stand out and are worth a fortune.

The most valuable 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are:

  • The 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) version

  • Coins with unique die errors

  • High-grade, proof-like versions

Among these, the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar is the true gem. Only a few dozen are known to exist, and one in pristine condition has sold for over $950,000 at auction.

Key Features of the Rare $950,000 Coin

Here’s how to identify whether your 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar might be one of the ultra-rare versions:

1. Look for SMS (Special Mint Set) Qualities

  • Only a few 1964 SMS coins were ever made, believed to be test strikes or experimental coins.

  • The surface should appear proof-like but not mirror-like—almost matte in finish.

  • Coins have sharper, more detailed design elements than regular strikes.

  • The rims are squared and sharper, unlike the rounded rims of circulation coins.

2. Check for High Grades

  • Rare versions are usually graded by professional services like PCGS or NGC.

  • MS68 or higher grades are extremely valuable.

  • Deep Cameo (DCAM) or Prooflike (PL) qualities raise the value drastically.

3. Look for Die Errors or Varieties

  • Some coins have double dies, where the design appears doubled.

  • Others may have off-center strikes or other minting mistakes.

Comparison Table: Common vs Rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar

Feature Common 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Rare SMS or Valuable Error Coin
Composition 90% Silver 90% Silver
Surface Finish Normal Circulated Matte or Prooflike
Mintmark No Mintmark (Philadelphia) or D (Denver) Usually no mintmark (Philadelphia SMS)
Mintage Over 400 million Less than 50 known
Edge Rounded Sharp, squared edges
Value ~$10–$20 (based on silver) $5,000 – $950,000+
Known Errors/Varieties Few minor errors Unique features and errors

Where to Get Your Coin Appraised

If you think you might own one of these rare coins, it’s important to have it professionally appraised. Here’s what to do:

  1. Do not clean the coin! Cleaning can drastically reduce its value.

  2. Contact a reputable coin dealer or submit your coin to:

    • PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)

    • NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)

  3. Look for coin shows or auctions with expert graders on-site.

FAQs

Q1: How can I tell if my 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is rare?

Look for prooflike surfaces, squared edges, and exceptionally sharp design details. If it appears different from most coins, it’s worth checking with an expert.

Q2: What does SMS mean?

SMS stands for Special Mint Set—a limited run of coins struck with special care, usually for collectors or testing purposes.

Q3: Are all 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars made of silver?

Yes, all 1964 versions are 90% silver. However, only rare types (like SMS or error coins) are worth thousands.

Q4: How much does a regular 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar weigh?

It weighs about 12.5 grams, with 90% of that being silver.


Final Thought

Most 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars aren’t worth more than their silver content, but a small number are true treasures. If you happen to find a 1964 coin with unusual features—especially prooflike finish or unusually sharp details—it may be one of the ultra-rare SMS versions or contain a valuable error. Getting your coin professionally graded is the best way to unlock its potential value.

Imagine finding a $950,000 treasure in your change jar—it’s happened before, and it could happen again. So, check your old coins, do your research, and you just might uncover a hidden fortune.

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