This 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Worth $156,000: Do You Own One?

The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is one of the most famous and sought-after coins in U.S. history. While most of these coins are only worth their silver content, a rare version has fetched an astonishing $156,000 at auction! Could you have one of these rare coins in your collection? Let’s find out.

1964 Kennedy Half Dollar

Fact	Details
Coin Name	1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
Material	90% Silver, 10% Copper
Mintage	273,304,004 (Regular Strikes)
Special Version	1964 SMS (Special Mint Set)
Record Sale Price	$156,000 (2019, Heritage Auctions)
Identifiable Features	Satin-like finish, sharper details, minimal marks
Current Value (Regular Coin)	$10 – $50 (depending on condition)
Official Coin Resources	US Mint Official Site

The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is a historic and collectible coin, with millions of standard versions available. However, if you own a rare SMS version, it could be worth a life-changing amount—up to $156,000!

To check your coin’s value, examine it carefully, look for the satin finish and sharp details, and consider getting it professionally graded. Whether you’re a casual collector or an investor, this coin remains one of the most fascinating pieces in American numismatics.

The History of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar

The Kennedy Half Dollar was first minted in 1964, following the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963. The coin was designed as a tribute to the beloved leader, with his profile featured on the obverse (front) and the Presidential Seal on the reverse (back).

Unlike later versions, the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar was struck in 90% silver, making it highly desirable for collectors and investors alike. The U.S. Mint produced these coins at three locations: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. However, only the Denver Mint included a mint mark (“D”) for circulation coins.

Why is the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Valuable?

While millions of 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars were produced, only a small number are truly valuable. Here’s why:

1. Silver Content and Inflation

• Every 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar contains 0.3617 troy ounces of silver.
• With silver prices fluctuating over the years, these coins typically have a melt value of around $10-$15.
• During the 1960s, concerns about rising silver prices led to the transition of half dollars from 90% silver to 40% silver in 1965, making the 1964 version the last of its kind.

2. Rare 1964 SMS Version

• A Special Mint Set (SMS) version was accidentally produced and is extremely rare.
• Unlike standard coins, SMS coins have a satin-like finish, sharper details, and minimal marks.
• Only 12 to 20 examples are known to exist.
• In 2019, one was sold for $156,000 at Heritage Auctions!

3. Collector Demand and Errors

• High-quality, uncirculated (MS65+) coins can sell for hundreds to thousands of dollars.
• Some error varieties, including doubled die obverses (DDO) and missing details, can further increase value.

How to Identify a 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar

Wondering if you own a rare SMS version? Look for these key differences:

1. Surface Finish and Luster

• SMS coins have a satin-like appearance with a smoother, finer texture.
• Regular circulation coins appear more reflective or have signs of wear.
• SMS coins often have a more matte-like surface compared to standard proof coins.

2. Strike Quality and Details

• SMS coins have sharp details, especially in Kennedy’s hair and the eagle’s feathers.
• Circulation coins often have weaker strikes.
• Compare fine details such as Kennedy’s cheek and the text thickness for more precision.

3. Contact Marks and Edge Design

• SMS coins show minimal to no contact marks, as they were carefully handled.
• The edge of an SMS coin might appear smoother, with crisp reeding (the grooved edges of the coin).

4. Mint Mark Absence

• No mint mark appears on either the regular or SMS 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars.
• Later years (1968 and beyond) introduced mint marks on proof versions.

If you think you own an SMS Kennedy Half Dollar, have it graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC.

How Much is a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Worth?

Condition	Regular 1964 Half Dollar	1964 SMS Half Dollar
Circulated (Worn)	$10 – $15	N/A (SMS coins never circulated)
Uncirculated (MS60-MS64)	$15 – $50	$50,000+
Gem (MS65-MS67)	$50 – $500	$100,000+
Top Grade (MS68/SP68)	$3,000 – $5,000	$156,000+

Where to Sell a Valuable 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar

If you have a valuable high-grade or SMS Kennedy Half Dollar, here’s where to sell it:

• Heritage Auctions
• Stack’s Bowers
• PCGS & NGC Certified Coin Dealers
• eBay or Coin Collector Forums (be cautious of scams!)
• Local Coin Shops and Bullion Dealers offer fair prices for lower-grade silver versions.

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FAQs About 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar

1. How can I tell if my 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is valuable?

If it has sharp details, a satin finish, and no contact marks, it might be an SMS version. Get it authenticated by PCGS or NGC.

2. Why is the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar special?

It was the first Kennedy Half Dollar, struck in 90% silver, and some rare SMS versions are worth over $100,000.

3. Are all 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars silver?

Yes! Unlike later years (which were 40% silver or clad), all 1964 half dollars were 90% silver.

4. Where can I get my coin authenticated?

You can submit it to PCGS or NGC for official grading.

5. Is the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar still in circulation?

Most were removed from circulation due to their silver content, but some may still be found in old coin collections.