Collection: Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 to Date)

Kennedy Half Dollar (1964–Present)

The Kennedy Half Dollar is an enduring tribute to President John F. Kennedy, first introduced just months after his assassination in 1963. This coin has become a collector’s favorite for its historical significance and evolving design, encompassing multiple alloy compositions and special commemorative issues.

Key Specifications

• Designers: Gilroy Roberts (Obverse), Frank Gasparro and Seth Huntington (Reverse)
• Issue Dates: 1964–Present
• Compositions:
  • 1964: 90% silver, 10% copper
  • 1965–1970: 40% silver, 60% copper (clad)
  • 1971–Present: Copper-nickel clad
  • 1992–Present (Proofs): 90% silver or .999 fine silver (beginning 2019)
• Diameter: 30.6 mm
• Edge: Reeded
• Mintage:
  • Business Strikes: Over 4.5 billion
  • Proofs: Over 150 million

Design Features

Obverse

The obverse, designed by Gilroy Roberts, features a profile of President Kennedy, based on his inaugural medal.

• Inscriptions Include:
  • LIBERTY
  • IN GOD WE TRUST
  • Date

Reverse

The reverse, designed by Frank Gasparro, showcases the Presidential Seal featuring the heraldic eagle with a shield, clutching arrows and an olive branch. The design symbolizes strength and peace.

For the Bicentennial issue (1975–1976), Seth Huntington’s design of Independence Hall replaced the standard reverse.

Notable Types and Variants

Type 1: 90% Silver (1964)

• Mintage:
  • Business Strikes: 429,509,450
  • Proofs: 3,950,962
• The inaugural Kennedy half dollar was composed of 90% silver, making it a sought-after collectible for its historical significance and silver content.

Type 2: 40% Silver (1965–1970)

• Mintage:
  • Business Strikes: 848,895,006
  • Proofs: 8,608,947
• To address the silver crisis, the composition shifted to a unique 40% silver clad alloy.
• Special Note: The 1970 half dollar was struck exclusively for mint and proof sets, making it a key date for collectors.

Type 3: Copper-Nickel Clad (1971–Present)

• Mintage: Over 2.3 billion
• After 1970, silver was removed from circulating coins, transitioning to a copper-nickel clad alloy.
• Proofs: Starting in 1992, silver proofs returned, initially in 90% silver and later upgraded to .999 fine silver in 2019.

Type 4: Bicentennial (1975–1976)

• Mintage:
  • Business Strikes: 521,873,248 (clad), 11,000,000 (silver clad)
  • Proofs: 7,059,099 (clad), 4,000,000 (silver clad)
• This special edition featured the double-date 1776–1976 and celebrated America’s Bicentennial. The reverse, designed by Seth Huntington, depicts Independence Hall.

The Collectibility of Kennedy Half Dollars

1. Historical Appeal:
   The Kennedy half dollar memorializes one of America’s most beloved presidents and reflects pivotal moments in U.S. history.

2. Composition Variants:
   Collectors are drawn to the diverse compositions, from the 90% silver issues of 1964 to modern-day .999 fine silver proofs.

3. Special Issues:
   The Bicentennial coins and gold 50th-anniversary editions add unique appeal.

4. Grade Rarity:
   High-grade examples with strong strikes, especially from early years, are highly sought after.

Shop Kennedy Half Dollars at ParadimeCoins.com

At ParadimeCoins.com, we offer an extensive selection of Kennedy Half Dollars, including key dates, silver issues, and pristine proofs. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting, these iconic coins make a timeless addition to any collection. Start exploring today!