A remarkable piece of American numismatic history made headlines when a rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar shattered all previous records by selling for an astounding $108,000 at a Heritage Auctions event. This extraordinary sale marked a watershed moment in modern coin collecting, demonstrating the incredible value that exceptional rarities can command in today’s market.
The Record-Breaking Sale
The historic auction took place on April 25, 2019, during Heritage Auctions’ prestigious event at the Central States Numismatic Society (CSNS) Convention in Schaumburg, Illinois. The sale smashed the previous world record of $47,000, which had been set by Heritage Auctions in 2016.
What Makes This Coin So Special
This particular Kennedy half dollar is one of approximately a dozen special issues struck in 90 percent silver and 10 percent copper for special coin sets issued by the U.S. Mint during the mid-1960s. These special mint set coins are characterized by a better-than-average strike, resulting from higher-tonnage coin presses than those used for coins intended for general circulation.
Understanding Special Mint Set (SMS) Coins
The coin that achieved this record price was graded PCGS SP67 SMS (Special Mint Set). The example sold at auction is valued for its rarity as well as its unique, satiny surface condition. These coins represent a fascinating chapter in U.S. Mint history, as their exact purpose and distribution remain somewhat mysterious.
Historical Context and Rarity
The Kennedy half dollar was released in early 1964, replacing the Franklin half dollar that debuted only 16 years earlier in 1948. The Kennedy half dollar, with the obverse designed by Gilroy Roberts and the reverse by Frank Gasparro, was an immediate hit, with millions of mourning Americans jumping on the opportunity to own a “souvenir” of Kennedy for only 50 cents.
Market Impact and Expert Analysis
“This is the ‘king of Kennedy half dollars,'” said Todd Imhof, Vice President at Heritage Auctions. “It seems we were very successful in attracting all the right bidders to this modern rarity and collectors did not want to miss the opportunity to own one of the United States’ rarest Kennedy Half Dollars.”
Kennedy Half Dollar Specifications Table
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1964 |
| Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 12.5 grams |
| Diameter | 30.6 mm |
| Designer (Obverse) | Gilroy Roberts |
| Designer (Reverse) | Frank Gasparro |
| Mint Mark Location | Reverse (left of eagle’s claw) |
| Special Designation | SMS (Special Mint Set) |
Record Sales History Table
| Year | Sale Price | Auction House | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $47,000 | Heritage Auctions | – |
| 2019 | $108,000 | Heritage Auctions | PCGS SP67 SMS |
Investment and Collecting Insights
The Kennedy half dollar series has proven to be one of the most dynamic areas of modern coin collecting. The movement toward more people collecting modern coinage and appreciating the value of scarce and high-end examples from later-vintage series such as the Kennedy half dollar, which features a wide variety of interesting material and ample collecting challenges even for the most affluent collectors.
Other Notable Kennedy Half Dollar Varieties
While the SMS 1964 example holds the record, other valuable Kennedy half dollar varieties include:
- 1964-D Doubled Die Obverse: The doubling is very strong mostly in the words “In God We Trust” also on the date of the coin, easily visible with the naked eye
- 1974-D Doubled Die Obverse: The only major doubled die variety in the entire Kennedy Half Dollar series, with prominent doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- 1964 Accented Hair: A 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Accented Hair PCGS Proof-69 DCAM sold for $23,540.00
Authentication and Grading Importance
Professional grading has become crucial for Kennedy half dollar collectors, especially for varieties like the SMS examples. The record-setting coin was authenticated and graded by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), which provides third-party verification of authenticity and condition.
Market Trends and Future Outlook
The Kennedy half dollar market continues to evolve, with collectors increasingly recognizing the series’ potential. The US Mint produces JFK half-dollars each year for annual coin sets and numismatic products, ensuring continued interest in the series.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I identify a valuable Kennedy half dollar?
A: Look for dates like 1964 (silver content), 1970-D (low mintage), and varieties like doubled dies or SMS specimens. Professional grading is recommended for valuable examples.
Q: Are all 1964 Kennedy half dollars valuable?
A: All 1964s contain 90% silver and are worth more than face value, but only special varieties like SMS or high-grade examples command premium prices.
Q: Where can I sell a rare Kennedy half dollar?
A: Major auction houses like Heritage Auctions, reputable coin dealers, or certified coin grading services can help evaluate and market exceptional specimens.