Kennedy Half Dollars: A Comprehensive Guide to Silver Issues and Value

The Kennedy half dollar, first issued in 1964, has a rich history that spans several decades and has seen dramatic changes in its silver content over time. Here is a comprehensive guide to the silver issues of these iconic coins.

1964: 90% Silver

The first year of the Kennedy half dollar, 1964, saw the coins minted with 90% silver. This was a rare period in the series, making this year's issue highly sought after among collectors.

1965-1970: 40% Silver

Following 1964, the composition changed to 40% silver and 60% copper from 1965 to 1970. These coins were part of the move towards discontinuing the use of silver in circulating coinage due to the soaring silver prices in the 1960s.

1971 Onward: Copper-Nickel Clad

From 1971 onwards, the Kennedy half dollar was produced in a copper-nickel clad, with no silver content, as part of a broader shift in U.S. coin production.

1976: Special Editions

The 1976 commemorative issues of the Kennedy half dollar further complicates the composition timeline. In that year, coins from the San Francisco Mint (S mint) were issued with some proof coins made of 40% silver, and the remainder were of copper-nickel clad. Business strike quality coins from the same year were also 40% silver.

1992 to 2018: Varied Compositions

Between 1992 and 2018, proof sets from the San Francisco Mint (S mint) were mixed, with some containing 90% silver and others made of copper-nickel clad. This period witnessed a blend of traditional and modern compositions, reflecting the changing interests of collectors and the evolving market value of these coins.

Special Considerations

For some years, particularly 1970, the silver Kennedy half dollars are highly sought after. The 1970-D proof set, being the last of the 40% silver issues, is particularly rare and valuable. Provenance and condition also play crucial roles in determining the value of these coins.

Conclusion

The history of the Kennedy half dollar is not just a simple timeline of production but a complex interplay of silver content, commemorative issues, and collector interest. Understanding the silver issues of these coins can help both collectors and investors make informed decisions about the value and rarity of different years and types. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a casual enthusiast, the Kennedy half dollar series offers a fascinating insight into the United States' monetary history.