The 1964 Kennedy half dollar holds a special place in American numismatics. Struck in 90% silver, the 1964 half was the last of the classic “silver” half dollar series that began in 1794. While plentiful in lower grades, the 1964 Kennedy half dollar is elusive in the finest certified grades, making it a key coin for collectors.
Why was the Kennedy half dollar introduced?
The Kennedy half dollar was born out of tragedy. Following the November 22, 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the United States Mint began immediate plans to memorialize the fallen president by placing his portrait on a coin. Work moved swiftly, and the Treasury approved the Kennedy half dollar design on December 30, 1963.
The new coin would replace the long-running Franklin half dollar design first minted in 1948. Considering Kennedy’s youth, energy and legacy, the half dollar bearing his likeness was an apt memorial.
How many 1964 Kennedy half dollars were made?
With the loss of their popular president still fresh in the minds of Americans, demand for the new 1964 Kennedy half dollar was overwhelming. The Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco Mints geared up for massive strikes of the new coin.
Here are the mintage figures for 1964 Kennedy half dollars:
| Mint | Mintage |
| Philadelphia | 276,587,000 |
| Denver | 57,898,004 |
| San Francisco | 11,950,000 |
| Total | 346,435,004 |
The staggering Philadelphia Mint output of nearly 277 million coins represented the highest half dollar mintage since the boom years immediately following World War II. Clearly, Americans couldn’t get enough of the brand new Kennedy half.
Why are 1964 Kennedy halves special?
There are two important distinctions for 1964 Kennedy half dollars compared to later dates of the series:
- The 1964 half dollar was made of 90% silver. This gave it an intrinsic melt value higher than its face value.
- No proof 1964 Kennedy halves were produced. Special collector proof versions didn’t begin until 1965.
These factors make 1964 one of the most important Kennedy halves for collectors.
What defects should be avoided?
With hundreds of millions produced, many 1964 Kennedy halves exhibit marks and defects from heavy use:
- Bagmarks – Light abrasions from coins rubbing together in Mint bags
- Contact marks – Dings from improper storage and handling
- Cleaning – Artificial wear from cleaning solutions or abrasives
- Corrosion – Environmental damage ranging from light spots to heavy pitting
Heavy wear and damage can ruin a coin’s eye appeal. Collectors should seek 1964 Kennedy halves with minimal flaws and distraction-free surfaces.
What grades exist for 1964 Kennedy halves?
1964 Kennedy halves are plentiful enough to populate every grade level on the Sheldon 70-point scale. Here are some noteworthy grades and their characteristics:
| Grade | Description |
| MS-67 | Superb strike and luster with no noticeable flaws |
| MS-66 | Above average surfaces with a few minor ticks |
| MS-65 | Bold luster and strike with scattered light bagmarks |
| MS-64 | Brilliant fields with moderate bagmarks overall |
| AU-58 | Light wear on the high points with strong eye appeal |
coins graded MS-65 and higher are considered premium quality for the issue. The typical uncirculated 1964 Kennedy half grades MS-63 to 64.
How much are 1964 Kennedy halves worth?
As a baseline, common date 1964 Kennedy half dollars in circulated condition are only worth a small premium over their silver melt value. Here are some approximate values:
| Grade | Value |
| MS-60 | $12 |
| MS-63 | $15 |
| MS-65 | $25 |
| MS-66 | $50 |
| MS-67 | $150 |
Keep in mind that coins with noteworthy rarities like rare die varieties or exceptional toning can be worth significantly more.
What is the 1964 Kennedy half dollar silver melt value?
With silver priced around $20 per ounce, a 90% silver 1964 Kennedy half contains about $6.30 worth of intrinsic silver value. This melt value fluctuates daily with changes in spot silver prices.
What factors make 1964 Kennedy halves rare and valuable?
There are a few keys to finding especially rare and valuable examples of the 1964 Kennedy half dollar:
- High grades – Superb gems with MS-66 or higher grades have tremendous appeal
- Special strikes – Coins with strong cameo contrast or prooflike fields
- Die varieties – Misalignments like doubled dies and RPMs
- Toning – Vivid rainbow colors on the surface
These factors can quickly ramp up 1964 Kennedy half values into the hundreds or thousands of dollars.
How much do high grade 1964 Kennedy halves sell for?
In grades of MS-67 or higher, 1964 Kennedy half dollars become very scarce and expensive. Here are some recent sales of top-graded examples:
| Grade | Price |
| MS-67 | $2,300 |
| MS-67+ | $7,500 |
| MS-68 | $25,000 |
Only a tiny fraction of 1964 Kennedy halves grade MS-67 or better. For collectors seeking investment-quality coins, these super gems are must-haves.
Are doubled die 1964 Kennedy halves valuable?
Doubled die errors happen when misaligned die strikes cause doubling of design elements. Rare doubled dies can generate tremendous demand. For example, the 1972 Kennedy half with a dramatic spread doubled die obverse sells for over $1,000 in MS-65 condition.
While no major doubled dies are known on 1964 Kennedy halves, minor doubling has been reported on 1964-D halves. These are scarce and sell for a strong premium, especially in higher mint state grades.
How much are toned 1964 Kennedy halves worth?
Many 1964 Kennedy halves exhibit colorful toning ranging from light champagne hues to vivid rainbow colors. Beautifully toned pieces certified by PCGS or NGC can sell for impressive premiums.
For example, this toned MS-66 1964 Kennedy half graded by PCGS sold for over $500 at auction:
Finding a 1964 Kennedy half with exceptional original toning is challenging. For toning connoisseurs, they are worth the effort.
How should 1964 Kennedy halves be collected?
There are many ways to collect the 1964 Kennedy half dollar:
- By mint – One coin from each Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco
- By grade – Building a set in MS-63, MS-65 or other grade
- By variety – Seeking coins with doubled dies, SMS designations, etc.
- By toning – Specializing in original coloration
Many enthusiasts attempt to acquire just one high-grade example of the 1964 half. Advanced collectors may build multiple sets showing the issue in all its varieties.
What is the future outlook for 1964 Kennedy halves?
As the first date of the series, key high-grade date, and last 90% silver issue, the 1964 Kennedy half dollar enjoys excellent future prospects among collectors and investors. Here are some positive factors:
- Iconic inaugural design honoring popular president
- Low surviving mintage in highest grades
- Silver value provides floor for appreciation
- Strong demand from mass collector base
With rising precious metals prices and continued interest in the series, the 1964 Kennedy half dollar is poised for growth in value over the coming decades.
Conclusion
Enduringly popular with both casual collectors and advanced numismatists, the 1964 Kennedy half dollar stands out as an important American silver coin. Saved extensively in the 1960s, high-end examples are elusive and valuable today. Featuring bold strike and alluring toning, this classic 90% silver issue looks impressive in any collection.