The Kennedy Half Dollar, introduced in 1964 following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, has become one of the most collected U.S. coins.
While most Kennedy halves are relatively common and used in circulation, there are a few extremely rare and valuable versions that have fetched over $100,000 at auction.
If you’re a collector or simply have a jar of old coins at home, you might be surprised to learn that you could be holding one of these high-value rarities.
Below are six of the most valuable Kennedy Half Dollars, complete with details, identification tips, and their market value.
1. 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable:
This rare coin was not released for public circulation and is believed to have been part of a trial strike. It features a satin finish and extremely sharp detail.
Auction Value: Over $150,000 for SP68 grade
How to Identify:
- Unique satin-like finish
- Strong, sharp strike
- Square-edged rims
- No mint mark
2. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable:
Issued only in mint sets, this coin was not released into general circulation, making high-grade specimens particularly rare. It was also the last 40% silver Kennedy half made.
Auction Value: Up to $150,000 in top condition
How to Identify:
- Denver “D” mint mark above the date
- 40% silver composition
- Only available in uncirculated mint sets
3. 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable:
This was part of the earliest 1964 proof strikes, quickly discontinued due to design adjustments. Only a limited number exist, especially in higher grades with cameo contrast.
Auction Value: Around $20,000 in PR68 Deep Cameo
How to Identify:
- Stronger hair detail above Kennedy’s ear
- Lower-left serif on the “I” in LIBERTY appears weak or missing
- No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint)
4. 1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable:
This was issued during the years when no proof coins were made. The Special Mint Set (SMS) versions have a unique finish and higher production quality.
Auction Value: Over $30,000 for SP68 grade
How to Identify:
- No mint mark
- Satin-like finish with deep strike details
- Higher quality than standard circulation coins
5. 1964 Proof Kennedy Half Dollar (PR70 Deep Cameo)
Why It’s Valuable:
While many 1964 proofs were made, finding one in perfect PR70 Deep Cameo condition is extremely rare.
Auction Value: Around $9,400
How to Identify:
- Deep mirror-like fields
- Frosted design elements
- No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint)
6. 1968-S Kennedy Half Dollar Proof
Why It’s Valuable:
Produced in San Francisco, the 1968-S proof is common, but specimens with perfect Deep Cameo contrast and flawless surfaces are very rare.
Auction Value: Over $21,000 in PR70 Deep Cameo
How to Identify:
- “S” mint mark above the date
- Deep mirror background and frosted raised design
Top Kennedy Half Dollars Worth Over $100,000
| Coin | Mint Mark | Key Feature | Grade | Approx. Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 SMS Half Dollar | No mint mark | Satin finish, rare strike | SP68 | $150,000+ |
| 1970-D Half Dollar | D | Not released in circulation | MS67+ | $150,000+ |
| 1964 Accented Hair Proof | No mint mark | Unique hair detail, early proof | PR68 DCAM | $20,000 |
| 1967 SMS Half Dollar | No mint mark | Special Mint Set issue | SP68 | $30,000+ |
| 1964 Proof Half Dollar | No mint mark | First-year proof, cameo contrast | PR70 DCAM | $9,400 |
| 1968-S Proof Half Dollar | S | Deep cameo in top condition | PR70 DCAM | $21,000+ |
The Kennedy Half Dollar is more than just a piece of history—it could be a hidden treasure in your collection or coin jar. From the ultra-rare 1964 SMS to the limited-release 1970-D, these coins have fetched staggering amounts at auctions.
If you think you might be holding one of these gems, it’s time to take a closer look. A single coin could be worth over $100,000—and that’s one piece of pocket change you won’t want to spend.
FAQs
How can I tell if my Kennedy Half Dollar is rare or valuable?
Look for mint marks, special finishes like cameo or satin, and confirm the year and mint of issue. Coins in high grades or with unique features are more likely to be valuable.
What does “SMS” mean in coin collecting?
SMS stands for Special Mint Set – a type of limited-edition coin set produced in select years (e.g., 1965–1967) when proof coins weren’t issued. They have higher quality than normal strikes.
Are all silver Kennedy Half Dollars valuable?
Not all are highly valuable. Most circulated silver Kennedy halves are worth their silver content (around $8–$12), but rare varieties or high-grade examples can be worth thousands.