1964 Kennedy Half Dollar.The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is one of the most appealing and popular coins among collectors. Although the coin is dated 1964, it did not reach the public until several months later.
Due to the emotional connection and the fact that it was made of 90% silver. People began collecting and saving them in large numbers. Many never even made it into everyday use.But this coin is more than just a tribute, some 1964 Kennedy halves are actually worth a lot of money.
Their value can come from a few different factors, such as rare minting errors, limited production runs, or just the high silver content itself. In certain conditions, a single coin can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars, and in extremely rare cases, nearly a million. Let’s know more about this Half Dollar Coin in the following article.
Overview of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Coin
| Name of Coin | 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Coin |
| Year Issued | 1964 |
| Historical Significance | It was released after the JFK’s assassination in 1963 |
| Metal Composition of Coin | 90% Silver and 10% Copper |
| Weight | 12.5 gms |
| Diameter | 30.6 mm |
| Mint Marks | No mint mark |
| Common Value Range | $10-$100 (based on silver content and condition) |
| Highest Known Value | Up to $100,000-$1 million for rare proof errors or pristine high-grade coins |
| Post Category | U.S. Coin History |
| Official Website | U.S.mint.gov |
Why is the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar still a Collector’s Favorite?
The Kennedy Half Dollar was first released in February 1964, replacing the Franklin Half Dollar. It was created to honor President John F. Kennedy after his assassination. These coins were made with 90% silver, which made them valuable financially and emotionally.
Even though about 430 million of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars were produced. Most disappeared from everyday use soon after they were released. People saved them as keepsakes and investments, thinking they would become rare. Due to this, the coin quickly became popular among collectors, and its demand has remained high ever since.
Silver Content and Value of Melt
Each 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar contains about 0.3617 ounces of silver. With silver priced at around $39.77 per ounce in late August 2025, the coin’s basic melt value is close to $14.
This sets a strong minimum value, which is already much higher than its 50-cent face value. However, many coins are worth even more due to their collector demand and rarity, which can push prices much higher.
Rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Varieties That Add Major Value
Although most 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are common, certain rare versions can be worth a significant amount due to unique features or limited production.
- 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Coins: A very small number of 1964 half dollars were struck in a special mint set called “SMS”. It gives the coin a smooth, satin-like appearance with polished details. Only about 20 to 50 of these non-proof coins are believed to exist. These extremely rare pieces have sold for tens of thousands of dollars at auctions.
- “Accented Hair” Proofs: Early proof coins from 1964 have extra hair detail above Kennedy’s ear and a missing serif on the “I” in “LIBERTY.” These subtle design differences make them highly desirable among collectors. They often sell for much more than regular proof coins.
- High-Grade Circulation Coins: Even regular 1964 business strike half dollars made of 90% silver can be valuable. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS grades) can range from $20 to over $100. It depends on their visual appeal and condition.
Condition of Coin
The condition of a coin impacts a lot about its value. The following table represents how the value of the half dollar can vary.
| Types of Coin | Value Range | Additional Information |
| Melt (Silver Content) | $14 | The starting value is calculated according to the price of silver |
| Circulated 90% silver | $20-$50 | Condition Dependent Value |
| Gem UNC (MS65+) | $50-$150 | Clean surface and sharp details |
| 1964 SMS | $20,000-$50,000 | It has the best condition of coin and it is rarely offered |
| Accented Hair Proof | $100-$500+ | Rare proof variety highly sought by collectors |
Latest Updates
If you ever see a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar then do not ever avoid it. Most 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are valued mainly for their silver content or carry only a small premium. However, certain rare types like the Special Mint Set (SMS) coins and Accented Hair Proofs can be worth much more.
These versions are highly collectible because of their limited production and unique features. Their strong historical connection to President Kennedy also adds to their appeal. Because of this combination of rarity and significance, these coins continue to stand out in the world of numismatics and remain favorites among serious coin collectors today.
| Home Page | https://aiis.org/ |
FAQs for 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
1. Why is the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Coin worth a lot?
The worth of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar coin is more because it is 90% silver and they were issued after the assassination of JFK’s. So, it also holds emotional connection with the people.
2. What is the value of the melt?
The value of the melt is around $14. It is estimated by the current silver prices.
3. Can I also get my mine graded?
Yes, you can get your mine graded. It basically adds the coin’s authenticity, resale appeal, and investment potential.
