The Kennedy half dollar, introduced in 1964, has become an important part of American currency and history. Among collectors and investors, the 90% silver Kennedy half dollars are especially valuable. This article will explain what these coins are worth, what affects their value, and how to determine their market price.
Historical Context
The Kennedy half dollar was created in honor of President John F. Kennedy after his assassination in 1963. To pay tribute to his legacy, the U.S. Mint decided to put his image on the half dollar coin, replacing the Franklin half dollar that had been in circulation since 1948. The original Kennedy half dollars were made with 90% silver, which makes them attractive not just for their design but also for the value of the metal itself.
Mintage and Composition
The 90% silver Kennedy half dollar was minted in large amounts during its first year. Different mint marks show where each coin was produced. Here’s a breakdown of the mintage figures for the 90% silver Kennedy half dollars:
| Year | Mint Location | Mint Mark | Mintage (Millions) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | Philadelphia | None | 430 |
| 1964 | Denver | D | 156 |
| 1964 | San Francisco | S | 3 |
| 1965 | Denver | D | 91 |
| 1965 | Philadelphia | None | 18 |
| 1966 | Denver | D | 108 |
| 1966 | Philadelphia | None | 27 |
| 1967 | Denver | D | 103 |
| 1967 | Philadelphia | None | 31 |
| 1968 | Denver | D | 103 |
Factors Influencing Value
Many factors affect how much a 90% silver Kennedy half dollar is worth. Understanding these can help collectors and investors make smart choices.
1. Silver Content
The main value of a 90% silver Kennedy half dollar comes from its silver content. Each coin contains about 0.3617 troy ounces of silver. As the price of silver changes, the value of these coins also changes. Here’s a rough estimate of their intrinsic value based on current silver prices:
| Silver Price (per ounce) | Intrinsic Value of Coin |
|---|---|
| $20 | $7.23 |
| $25 | $9.04 |
| $30 | $10.90 |
2. Condition and Grading
The condition of the coin is crucial for its value. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher grades meaning better condition. Here are common grades for 90% silver Kennedy half dollars:
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| F 12 | Fair condition, significant wear | $3 – $5 |
| VF 20 | Very Fine, some detail remains | $5 – $10 |
| XF 40 | Extremely Fine, minimal wear | $10 – $20 |
| AU 50 | About Uncirculated, slight wear | $20 – $40 |
| MS 60 | Mint State, some marks visible | $50 – $100 |
| MS 65 | Well-preserved, few blemishes | $150 – $250 |
3. Mint Mark and Rarity
Certain mint marks can make coins rarer, which affects their value. For example, the 1964-S coin from the San Francisco mint is much rarer than the ones from Philadelphia and Denver. Here’s a look at some notable mint marks:
| Mint Mark | Description | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| None | Philadelphia Mint (common) | $7 – $15 |
| D | Denver Mint (common) | $7 – $15 |
| S | San Francisco Mint (rare) | $50 – $100 |
Market Trends
The market for 90% silver Kennedy half dollars has changed over the years. Here’s a summary of recent sales activity:
| Condition | Sale Price | Auction Date | Auction House | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MS 65 | $250 | April 2024 | Heritage Auctions | Exceptional quality |
| AU 50 | $35 | March 2023 | eBay | Common circulated condition |
| F 12 | $5 | January 2024 | Local Coin Show | Typical price for low-grade |
| MS 66 | $500 | July 2023 | Stack’s Bowers | Very few blemishes |
Collecting Tips
If you want to start collecting 90% silver Kennedy half dollars, here are some helpful tips:
- Start with Circulated Coins: Begin your collection with coins that have been in circulation. They are usually more affordable and easier to find.
- Look for Mint Marks: Pay close attention to mint marks, especially for rare coins.
- Focus on Condition: Try to invest in coins with higher grades as they may appreciate in value over time.
- Stay Updated: Keep track of silver prices and market trends to make informed buying and selling decisions.
Conclusion
The 90% silver Kennedy half dollar is more than just a coin; it is a piece of history with both collectible and intrinsic value. Understanding the factors that influence its worth—like silver content, condition, mint marks, and market trends—can enhance your experience in collecting.
Whether you’re an investor looking to benefit from silver prices or a collector eager to own a piece of American history, the Kennedy half dollar provides a rich opportunity for exploration and investment. As you delve into the world of numismatics, each Kennedy half dollar invites you to discover the stories behind the coin and the legacy of an iconic president.
FAQ’S
1. What makes the 90% silver Kennedy half dollar valuable?
The value comes from its silver content, historical significance, and condition. Each coin contains about 0.3617 troy ounces of silver, and the price of silver can fluctuate, affecting the coin’s worth.
2. How can I tell if my Kennedy half dollar is a 90% silver coin?
You can identify a 90% silver Kennedy half dollar by its mint year—specifically, coins minted from 1964 to 1970. The coins from 1964 are all silver, while those from 1965 to 1970 contain 40% silver, not 90%.
3. What are the different grades for Kennedy half dollars?
Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70. Common grades for 90% silver Kennedy half dollars include Fair (F 12), Very Fine (VF 20), Extremely Fine (XF 40), About Uncirculated (AU 50), Mint State (MS 60), and higher grades like MS 65.
