Half dollar coins may seem like just another piece of everyday currency, but some rare varieties are worth far more than their face value. With unique features, low mintage, or historical significance, certain half dollars can fetch impressive prices. If you’re fortunate, one of these valuable coins could be hiding in your pocket change right now.
Here are ten of the most valuable half dollar coins that might be worth far more than you think.
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver)
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar was the first year the coin was minted following President Kennedy’s assassination in 1963. Made from 90% silver, it holds a special place in the hearts of collectors.
- Value: In circulated condition, these coins typically range from $10 to $40, but in higher grades or uncirculated condition, they can be worth upwards of $100 or more.
2. 1964 Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
This version of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar was struck for collectors and features a mirror-like finish. It’s rarer than regular circulation coins and is often found in excellent condition.
- Value: Depending on its condition and packaging, a 1964 Proof Kennedy Half Dollar can be worth between $40 and $100 or more.
3. 1938 Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The 1938 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is part of a beloved series and is one of the last issues before the coin was replaced by the Franklin Half Dollar in 1948. Its aesthetic design and rarity make it a prized collectible.
- Value: These coins typically range from $20 to $40, but those in higher grades or pristine condition can reach $200 or more.
4. 1921 Walking Liberty Half Dollar
Due to its low mintage, the 1921 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is especially rare and highly sought after by collectors. It is one of the most valuable coins in the Walking Liberty series.
- Value: In average condition, these coins may be worth $100 to $500, but pristine examples can sell for $1,000 or more.
5. 1942/1 Overdate Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The 1942/1 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is an overdate coin, meaning that a “1” from the previous year’s coin is visible under the “2” of the 1942 date. This rare error coin can fetch a substantial amount.
- Value: Depending on its condition, the 1942/1 Overdate Walking Liberty Half Dollar can be worth between $500 and $2,000.
6. 1919-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The 1919-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar is rare due to its low production numbers, especially in higher grades. Collectors prize these coins for their historical value and scarcity.
- Value: Most 1919-S coins are valued between $100 and $200, but those in mint condition can sell for over $1,000.
7. 1950 Franklin Half Dollar
The Franklin Half Dollar, honoring Founding Father Benjamin Franklin, was issued from 1948 to 1963. The 1950 version, particularly when found in high-quality condition, is highly collectible.
- Value: A 1950 Franklin Half Dollar is generally worth between $20 and $50, but coins in mint condition or those with rare mint marks can fetch upwards of $100.
8. 1916 Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The 1916 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is one of the first coins issued in the series and is highly prized due to its low mintage. It is a must-have for any serious collector of American coins.
- Value: A 1916 coin can be worth anywhere from $150 to $500 in typical condition, with pristine examples selling for more than $1,000.
9. 1947-D Franklin Half Dollar
Though not as rare as some other Franklin Half Dollars, the 1947-D version is still a valuable coin because of its relatively low mintage and importance to collectors of this series.
- Value: In average condition, a 1947-D Franklin Half Dollar may be worth between $20 and $50, with higher-grade coins potentially reaching $100 or more.
10. 1969-S Double Die Obverse Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1969-S Double Die Obverse Kennedy Half Dollar is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. The double die results in a noticeable doubling of the date and inscriptions on the coin’s obverse side.
- Value: The 1969-S Double Die Obverse Kennedy Half Dollar is incredibly valuable, with prices ranging from $2,000 to more than $100,000, depending on the condition and rarity.
Conclusion
While most half dollar coins are worth just their face value, certain rare editions can command hefty sums in the market. If you’re checking your pocket change, it’s worth looking closely at half dollars—especially older ones, as they could be worth far more than you think. Always pay attention to the year, mint mark, and condition of the coin, and if you believe you have one of these rare specimens, consider getting it appraised by a professional to discover its true value.
FAQs
Which half dollar coins are the most valuable?
Some of the most valuable half dollar coins include the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, 1921 Walking Liberty Half Dollar, and the 1969-S Double Die Obverse Kennedy Half Dollar. These coins are highly prized due to their rarity, historical significance, and unique characteristics.
How do I know if I have a rare half dollar coin?
Look for key features like the year of minting, mint mark, and coin condition. Coins from certain years, such as 1921 or 1969-S, are known for their scarcity and can be worth significantly more than their face value, especially if they are in excellent condition.
What makes the 1969-S Double Die Obverse Kennedy Half Dollar so valuable?
The 1969-S Double Die Obverse Kennedy Half Dollar is valuable due to a rare minting error where the date and inscriptions are doubled. This mistake makes it one of the most sought-after error coins in U.S. history, worth thousands, or even more depending on its condition.
What is the value of a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar?
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is worth more than its face value because it is made of 90% silver. Depending on its condition, it can range from $10 to $40, with higher-grade examples fetching $100 or more.
