6 Rare Kennedy Half Dollars Worth Over $250,000 – Could You Have One in Your Collection?

The Kennedy Half Dollar, first minted in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, remains one of the most collected U.S. coins. While most are easily found, a few rare varieties have sold for astonishing prices—some exceeding $250,000. If you’ve inherited or collected these coins, you might be sitting on a hidden treasure.

Kennedy Half Dollars

Several factors determine the value of Kennedy Half Dollars:

• Mint Errors – Coins with striking errors or missing design elements are rare and valuable.
• Special Finishes – Some limited-edition versions, like Special Mint Sets (SMS), are highly sought after.
• Low Mintage Numbers – Coins produced in smaller quantities tend to fetch higher prices.
• Condition and Grading – A coin in pristine condition, graded by PCGS or NGC, will command a premium.
• Historical Significance – The Kennedy Half Dollar holds sentimental value, increasing its demand among collectors.

Now, let’s look into six rare Kennedy Half Dollars that have sold for impressive amounts.

1964 Special Mint Set (SMS)

This mysterious and rare variety differs from standard proofs and business strikes. The SMS version has a satin-like finish, sharper details, and square rims.

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• Estimated Value: Over $250,000 in high grades
• Notable Sale: $156,000 in 2019
• Key Identifier: Unique satin finish, lacking mirror-like reflectivity
• Tip: If you suspect you own an SMS coin, have it professionally graded for authentication.

1964 “Accented Hair” Proof

The “Accented Hair” variety features more pronounced hair details above Kennedy’s ear, which were later softened due to public feedback. This makes the original version rarer.

• Estimated Value: Up to $150,000 in PR68 condition
• Mintage: Fewer than 100,000 identified
• Key Identifier: Strong, detailed hair strands above Kennedy’s ear
• Where to Look: Check proof sets from 1964 to see if you own this variety.

1966 SMS No FG

In 1966, some Special Mint Set Kennedy Half Dollars were struck without the initials “FG” (for designer Frank Gasparro) on the reverse side. This missing feature makes them highly valuable.

• Estimated Value: Over $250,000
• Key Identifier: Missing “FG” initials near the eagle’s tail feathers
• Pro Tip: Use a magnifying glass to inspect the reverse side. These error coins can be tricky to spot.

1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar

The 1970-D version was never released into circulation and was only available in special Mint Sets, making it one of the rarest Kennedy Half Dollars.

• Estimated Value: Up to $50,000 in mint condition
• Mintage: Around 2.1 million
• Key Identifier: Denver mint mark (“D”)
• Collector Insight: Coins in their original government packaging are worth more.

1974-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)

A notable minting error in 1974 resulted in a doubling effect on inscriptions, particularly in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”

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• Estimated Value: $40,000+ in MS65 condition
• Key Identifier: Doubling in the lettering
• Where to Look: Examine 1974-D coins under magnification to check for doubling.

1998-S Matte Finish

This coin was part of a special two-coin set released alongside a Robert F. Kennedy commemorative dollar. Its frosted, matte finish sets it apart.

• Estimated Value: Up to $20,000 in perfect condition
• Mintage: Only 62,000 minted
• Key Identifier: Frosted matte finish with deep strike details
• Investment Tip: Keep the coin in its original U.S. Mint packaging to maintain value.

How to Check Your Coin’s Value

If you think you own a rare Kennedy Half Dollar, follow these steps:

1. Inspect Your Coin – Use a magnifying glass to look for key features.
2. Check Mint Marks and Dates – Identify the mint year and location.
3. Consult Professional Graders – Services like PCGS and NGC can authenticate and grade your coin.
4. Research Recent Sales – Visit auction sites like Heritage Auctions and eBay to compare prices.
5. Store Coins Properly – Use coin holders or protective cases to prevent damage.
6. Consider Insurance – High-value coins should be insured to protect against loss or theft.

Kennedy Half Dollars may seem like ordinary coins, but a rare variety can be worth a small fortune. If you have any of these coins, get them evaluated—you might be holding onto a hidden treasure.

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