This Rare 1964 JFK Half-Dollar Just Sold for $150,000: Imagine finding an old coin in your pocket change or a family heirloom and discovering it’s worth a small fortune. That’s exactly what happened when a 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar recently sold for a staggering $156,000 at auction. This rare coin has sparked excitement among collectors and casual coin holders alike—after all, could you be holding one of these valuable pieces without even knowing it? In this guide, we’ll explore what makes this coin so special, how to identify it, its historical significance, and tips for collectors. Whether you’re an experienced numismatist or someone who just found a Kennedy Half-Dollar in an old drawer, this article will give you everything you need to know.
This Rare 1964 JFK Half-Dollar Just Sold for $150,000
The 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar is a historically significant and valuable coin. While most are worth their silver weight, the ultra-rare SMS version recently sold for an incredible $156,000. If you have a 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar, it’s worth checking its condition, finish, and grading potential—you might be sitting on a hidden treasure!
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Coin | 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar |
| Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Notable Variant | Special Mint Set (SMS) with satin finish |
| Record Sale | $156,000 at Stack’s Bowers auction in 2019 |
| Rarity | Only a few SMS coins are known to exist |
| Value of Regular 1964 Coins | $8.63 (melt value), up to $15 for uncirculated versions |
| Identification Tips | Satin finish, sharp details, absence of contact marks |
| Where to Sell | Coin dealers, auctions, online marketplaces |
For more information, visit the official PCGS website.
The Birth of the Kennedy Half-Dollar: A Coin of Remembrance
The Kennedy Half-Dollar was introduced in 1964 following the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963. The coin was minted as a tribute to JFK’s legacy, with a design that captured the respect and mourning of an entire nation.
Designed by Gilroy Roberts (obverse) and Frank Gasparro (reverse), the coin was intended to replace the Franklin Half-Dollar, but it quickly became a collector’s item rather than a widely circulated coin. The initial 1964 version was minted with 90% silver, adding to its value.
Why Did a 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar Sell for $156,000?
The record-breaking $156,000 sale wasn’t for just any 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar—it was a Special Mint Set (SMS) version, which is extremely rare. Here’s what makes these coins unique:
- SMS Finish: Unlike regular coins, SMS coins were produced with a distinct satin-like finish.
- Sharper Details: The Kennedy portrait and eagle on the reverse side appear much sharper.
- Lack of Contact Marks: Regular coins show marks from circulation, while SMS coins were specially handled to avoid them.
- Low Mintage: Only a handful of 1964 SMS Half-Dollars are known to exist.
The rarity of the SMS version means collectors are willing to pay extraordinary amounts for these coins.
How to Identify This Rare 1964 JFK Half-Dollar?
If you’re wondering whether you own one of these rare coins, check for the following:
- Finish: SMS coins have a smooth, satin-like texture—not the shiny proof-like surface of standard collector’s coins.
- Details: The design is sharper, with crisp edges and distinct features.
- No Contact Marks: SMS coins don’t have the small scratches and dings found on circulated coins.
- Weight & Composition: It should weigh 12.5 grams and be made of 90% silver.
If your coin has these characteristics, it’s worth getting it professionally graded to determine its authenticity and potential value.
Regular 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollars: Are They Valuable?
Even if you don’t have the ultra-rare SMS version, a standard 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar is still valuable due to its silver content.
- Silver Value: Contains 0.3617 troy ounces of silver.
- Current Melt Value: As of 2024, it’s around $8.63 per coin based on silver prices.
- Uncirculated Versions: Can fetch between $12 to $15.
- Proof Versions: Special proof sets are worth even more.
Tips for Coin Collectors & Enthusiasts
If you’re interested in coin collecting, here are some expert tips:
1. Know Your Coin Variants
- Regular Circulation Coins: Worth silver melt value.
- Proof Coins: Made for collectors, often more valuable.
- SMS Coins: Rare and highly sought after.
2. Get Your Coins Graded
If you think your Kennedy Half-Dollar could be rare, have it graded by a professional service like:
- PCGS (www.pcgs.com)
- NGC (www.ngccoin.com)
3. Store Your Coins Properly
To preserve value:
- Use coin holders or slabs.
- Avoid touching the surface.
- Store in a dry, cool place.
4. Buy & Sell from Reputable Dealers
If you’re looking to buy or sell, consider:
- Auction Houses (like Stack’s Bowers, Heritage Auctions)
- Certified Coin Dealers
- Online Marketplaces (eBay, Great Collections)
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I know if my 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar is worth more than its silver value?
A: If it’s uncirculated, proof, or an SMS coin, it could be worth much more. Get it graded by a professional service like PCGS.
Q: Where can I sell my Kennedy Half-Dollar?
A: You can sell through coin dealers, auction houses, and online marketplaces. Be sure to check recent auction prices for similar coins.
Q: What is the difference between a proof coin and an SMS coin?
A: Proof coins have a mirror-like surface and are struck multiple times for clarity. SMS coins have a satin finish and were produced in small quantities.
Q: How many 1964 SMS Kennedy Half-Dollars exist?
A: Only a few dozen are known, making them one of the rarest modern U.S. coins.
