Kennedy Half Dollar: Introduced in 1964 after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the Kennedy Half Dollar has emerged as one of America’s most collectible coins.
While most Kennedy half dollar coins are in common movement and clean to locate, there are a few very rare and precious versions that have fetched over $100,000 at public sale.
If you are a coin collector or a jar of old coins, you will be surprised to check that you can own such unusual and high-priced coins.
Here is a record of six maximum valuable Kennedy half-dollar coins, such as a way to take them and market costs.
1. 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Kennedy Half Dollar
Why it’s valuable:
This rare coin was not released to the public and is considered part of a test strike. Its satin-like finish and extremely sharp detail make it even more special.
Auction Value: Over $150,000 in SP68 grade
How to Identify:
- Special satin-like finish
- Sharp and clear strike
- Square edges
- No mint mark
2. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar

Why It’s Valuable:
This coin was only issued in mint sets and never entered public circulation, making coins with high grades especially rare. This was the last Kennedy half dollar made of 40% silver.
Auction Value: Up to $150,000 in top condition
How to Identify:
- Denver “D” mint mark above the date
- 40% silver composition
- Only available in uncirculated mint sets
3. 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable:
This was part of the first proof strikes of 1964, which were quickly discontinued due to a design change. Only a limited number of this coin survive, especially the high-grade cameo contrast coins.
Auction Value: About $20,000 in PR68 Deep Cameo
How to Identify:
- More pronounced detail of the hair above Kennedy’s ear
- Serif of the bottom-left “I” of the word “LIBERTY” weak or missing
- No Mint Mark (Philadelphia Mint)
4. 1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
Why It’s Valuable:
This coin was issued in one of the years when no proof coins were produced. Special Mint Set (SMS) versions have a unique finish and higher quality.
Auction Value: Over $30,000 in SP68 grade
How to Identify:
- No mint mark
- Satin-like finish and deep strike details
- Higher quality than normal circulation coins
5. 1964 Proof Kennedy Half Dollar (PR70 Deep Cameo)

Why It’s Valuable:
Although many 1964 proof coins were minted, finding a coin in PR70 deep cameo condition is extremely rare.
Auction Value: Around $9,400
How to Identify:
- Deep mirror-like field
- Frozen design elements
- No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint)
6. 1968-S Kennedy Half Dollar Proof
Why It’s Valuable:
This coin was produced in San Francisco, and while it’s common, coins with a perfectly deep cameo contrast and no imperfections that surface are extremely rare.
Auction Value: Over $21,000 in PR70 Deep Cameo
How to Identify:
- “S” mint mark above the date
- Deep mirror-like background and frozen design
Top Kennedy Half Dollars Worth Over $100,000
Coin | Mint Mark | Key Feature | Grade | Approx. Value |
---|---|---|---|---|
1964 SMS Half Dollar | No mint mark | Satin finish, rare strike | SP68 | $150,000+ |
1970-D Half Dollar | D | Not released in circulation | MS67+ | $150,000+ |
1964 Accented Hair Proof | No mint mark | Unique hair detail, early proof | PR68 DCAM | $20,000 |
1967 SMS Half Dollar | No mint mark | Special Mint Set issue | SP68 | $30,000+ |
1964 Proof Half Dollar | No mint mark | First-year proof, cameo contrast | PR70 DCAM | $9,400 |
1968-S Proof Half Dollar | S | Deep cameo in top condition | PR70 DCAM | $21,000+ |
Conclusion:
The Kennedy Half Dollar isn’t only a historical coin, but it could additionally be a hidden treasure in your series or coin jar. From the 1964 SMS to the 1970-D confined-release coin, these coins have fetched extraordinary fees at auction.
If you observed, you might have this sort of uncommon cash; it’s really worth taking a closer look. One coin can be really worth over $100,000, and that is change you do not need to spend!
FAQs
1. What makes the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar valuable?
The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar is valuable due to its rare satin-like finish, sharp detail, and its status as a test strike, fetching over $150,000 at auction.
2. Why is the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar rare?
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is rare because it was only issued in mint sets and never circulated, with high-grade coins being particularly valuable, reaching auction values up to $150,000.
3. What is the value of a 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar?
A 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar can fetch about $20,000 in PR68 Deep Cameo condition due to its limited mintage and distinct design features.