A Coin Worth a Fortune
The Kennedy Half Dollar, first minted in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, is more than just pocket change. Some rare versions of this 50-cent coin have sold for jaw-dropping prices at auctions, with several fetching over $12,000. Collectors are buzzing about these finds, as certain coins from the 1960s and 1970s have unique features or errors that make them incredibly valuable. Stories of people finding these treasures in everyday places, like coin jars or even gas station change, have sparked a wave of excitement among numismatists and casual folks alike.
Why Are These Coins So Special?
What makes some Kennedy Half Dollars worth thousands? It often comes down to rare varieties or minting mistakes. For example, the 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) coins, which were never meant for public release, are extremely rare. One of these, graded SP68 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), sold for $156,000 in 2019. Another prized version is the 1964 “Accented Hair” proof, with extra detail in Kennedy’s hair above the ear. High-grade examples of this coin have gone for $20,000 or more at auctions. Errors like doubled die obverse (where the design appears doubled) or off-center strikes also drive up value, with some fetching $50,000 or higher.
| Rare Kennedy Half Dollar | Auction Price |
|---|---|
| 1964 SMS SP68 | $156,000 |
| 1964 Accented Hair | $20,000+ |
Everyday Finds Turn Into Millions
Believe it or not, some of these valuable coins have been found in everyday situations. A 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar with a doubled die error was discovered in gas station change and sold for $1.9 million at auction. Another coin, a 1964 SMS, was found in a couch cushion and valued at $875,000. These stories show that rare coins can still be hiding in circulation. The 1964 coins, made of 90% silver, already have value due to their metal content, but rare errors or pristine condition can make them worth a fortune.
| Notable Find | Value |
|---|---|
| 1964-D Doubled Die | $1.9 million |
| 1964 SMS (Couch Find) | $875,000 |
How to Spot a Valuable Coin
Want to check if you have a rare Kennedy Half Dollar? Look for specific details. For 1964 coins, check above Kennedy’s ear for extra hair details or a missing serif on the “I” in “LIBERTY” for the Accented Hair variety. For errors, look for doubling in the word “TRUST” or an off-center design. Coins from 1970-D are also worth checking, as some errors have sold for $12,000 or more. Use a magnifying glass and compare your coin to images online. If you think you have a winner, take it to a trusted coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC to confirm its value.
Tips for Selling Your Coin
If you find a rare Kennedy Half Dollar, handle it carefully to keep its value. Hold it by the edges or use gloves to avoid scratches, and store it in a coin holder. Get it graded by a professional service to boost its auction price. Selling through reputable auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers can help you get the best deal. Online platforms like eBay work too, but make sure to research sold listings to set a fair price. With demand for these coins growing, now is a great time to check your change or old collections.
The Thrill of the Hunt
The Kennedy Half Dollar is more than just money; it’s a piece of American history. With some coins selling for over $12,000 and others reaching millions, the hunt for these treasures is thrilling. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, checking your coins could lead to a big payday. Stories of ordinary people finding these coins in unexpected places keep the excitement alive. So, next time you get change or dig through a coin jar, take a closer look. You might just find a Kennedy Half Dollar worth a fortune.