Could the change in your pocket be worth almost a million dollars? The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, minted to honor President John F. Kennedy, is a coin many people still have. While most are worth just 50 cents, a few rare ones can sell for huge sums, like $950,000 or more. These special coins are out there, maybe in your wallet or a jar at home. Let’s look at why some Kennedy Half Dollars are so valuable and how you can find them.
Why Some Kennedy Half Dollars Are Rare
The Kennedy Half Dollar first came out in 1964, soon after President Kennedy’s death. Most were made with a mix of silver and copper, but a few have unique features that make them worth a fortune. Errors during minting, like double-stamped designs, or coins made with the wrong metal, are what collectors chase. These rare versions are hard to find, which drives up their value. Knowing what to look for can turn a simple coin into a big payday.
The Most Valuable 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars
One of the top finds is the 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Kennedy Half Dollar. Only a handful of these were made with a super smooth, shiny finish, and they’re worth up to $950,000 at auction. Another rare one is the 1964 Accented Hair variety, where the hair on Kennedy’s portrait has extra detail. These can sell for $10,000 to $20,000. There’s also the 1964 Double Die Obverse, with blurry text or image, valued at $100 to $500 depending on condition.
| Coin Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| 1964 SMS | Up to $950,000 |
| 1964 Accented Hair | $10,000 to $20,000 |
How to Identify a Rare Kennedy Half Dollar
You don’t need to be a coin expert to spot a valuable 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar. Start by checking the date and mint mark, a small D or no mark under Kennedy’s neck. Use a magnifying glass to look for heavy hair lines above the ear for the Accented Hair variety or doubling in the words like “LIBERTY.” The SMS coins have a super polished look, almost mirror-like. Compare your coin to pictures online or in coin books. If it seems special, take it to a coin dealer for a closer look.
| Feature to Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Hair Details | Extra lines or doubling |
| Surface Finish | Mirror-like for SMS |
Where to Find These Coins
Rare Kennedy Half Dollars could be hiding anywhere. You might get one in change at a store or find it in an old coin collection. Check rolls of half dollars from banks, as collectors often do. Flea markets, garage sales, or even your family’s old piggy bank could hold a treasure. The 1964 coins were widely used, so they’re still in circulation. Keep an eye out, and you might find a coin worth more than you ever expected.
What to Do If You Find a Rare Coin
If you think you’ve got a rare Kennedy Half Dollar, don’t clean it. Cleaning can lower its value. Store it in a plastic coin holder to keep it safe. Show it to a trusted coin dealer or appraiser to confirm if it’s real and what it’s worth. You can also send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC for an official evaluation. If it’s a high-value coin, you might sell it at an auction or to a collector. That half dollar in your pocket could be your ticket to a life-changing sum.