Rare 1964 JFK Half-Dollar Coins: The 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar is one of the maximum sought-after coins among creditors, and for correct purpose. While many of these cash are commonplace, positive rare variants can fetch over $150,000 at auctions. If you have an antique coin collection or inherited a few half-greenbacks, you is probably protecting onto a small fortune without even understanding it.
But how do you spot those precious 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars? This guide will stroll you thru the whole thing you need to recognise, which includes key signs of rare cash, the way to affirm authenticity, and in which to sell them for the very best fee.
Rare 1964 JFK Half-Dollar Coins
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Year | 1964 |
Metal Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
Most Valuable Variant | 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Specimen |
Auction Record | $156,000 for an SMS Specimen (Stack’s Bowers Auction) |
Other Valuable Types | Accented Hair Proof, Double Die Obverse (DDO) |
Official Coin Valuation | PCGS Price Guide |
Best Selling Platforms | eBay, Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers |

The 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar is more than just a bit of records—it is able to be well worth a small fortune! If you own one, check for uncommon varieties just like the 1964 SMS Specimen, Accented Hair Proof, and Double Die Obverse errors. Authentication and grading are crucial in figuring out its true value. Whether you’re a collector or just stumbled upon one, knowledge those key capabilities could flip your coin into a six-determine payday!
History of the 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar
The Kennedy Half Dollar become first minted in 1964 as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy, who became tragically assassinated in November 1963. Due to the huge public call for, the U.S. Mint produced millions of those coins in 1964. However, it changed into the most effective 12 months that those cash were made with ninety% silver, making them mainly acceptable for creditors and silver traders.
But no longer all 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are created identical. Some sorts and errors make certain coins extremely rare and treasured.
How to Identify a Valuable 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar
While most 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollars are worth their silver content material (around $10–$15), some rare kinds are really worth heaps or maybe hundreds of lots of greenbacks. Below are the key editions to look for:
1.964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Specimen
- Why It’s Valuable: Only around 12 examples are recognised to exist.
- Key Features:
- A awesome satin end with sharp, well-described information.
- Lack of traditional mint marks or touch marks.
- Strong strike and frosted appearance.
- Auction Price: A PCGS SP68 graded coin bought for $156,000 at Stack’s Bowers.

2. Accented Hair Proof Variety
- Why It’s Valuable: This became the authentic design, which became later changed on the request of Jacqueline Kennedy.
- Key Features:
- Extra hair element above Kennedy’s ear.
- A missing serif at the “I” in “LIBERTY”.
- Auction Price: In PR69 circumstance, it can fetch $20,000 .
3. Double Die Obverse (DDO) Error
- Why It’s Valuable: The die struck the coin twice, creating a substantial doubling effect.
- Key Features:
- Doubling in IN GOD WE TRUST and the date “1964”.
- Clear separation among letters and numbers.
- Auction Price: A 1964-D DDO in MS67 circumstance bought for $2,000 .

How to Authenticate and Grade Your Coin
If you believe you studied you’ve got a precious 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar, follow these steps to authenticate and grade it:
- Examine the Coin’s Features:
- Look for the particular characteristics of treasured sorts.
- Check the Coin’s Condition:
- The higher the grade (e.G., MS65, MS68), the more precious the coin.
- Weigh the Coin:
- A proper 1964 1/2-dollar weighs 12.5 grams.
- Use a Magnet:
- 1964 half-bucks aren’t magnetic; if it sticks to a magnet, it’s in all likelihood faux.
- Submit to a Professional Grading Service:
- Top grading companies encompass PCGS and NGC.
Where to Sell Your 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar
If you personal an extraordinary and valuable 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar, right here are the excellent locations to promote it:
- Online Auctions: Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers
- eBay: Great for promoting graded and authenticated cash.
- Local Coin Dealers: Visit a good coin shop.
- Coin Shows: Meet creditors inclined to pay premium prices.
FAQs:
How can I tell if my 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar is valuable?
Check for rare varieties like the SMS Specimen, Accented Hair Proof, or DDO Error. Also, look at the coin’s condition and whether it’s been graded.
Are all 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollars made of silver?
Yes, all 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollars are 90% silver. Later years (1965–1970) contain 40% silver, and after 1971, they were made of copper-nickel.
How much is a standard 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar worth?
Most regular 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollars are worth $10–$15, based on their silver content.