The Kennedy Half-Dollar: A Symbol of Remembrance and National Solidarity

The Kennedy Half-Dollar is one of the most sought-after coins in the numismatic world of the United States and a specimen will fetch you a healthy $15,000. The coin is indelibly tied to the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 1963, which adds a layer of deep sentimental and historical value to the commemorative design.

The Kennedy Half-Dollar is one of the most sought-after coins in the United States numismatic world and can fetch a healthy $15,000. The coin is indelibly linked to the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 1963, adding a layer of deep sentimental and historical value to the commemorative design.

The Kennedy Half-Dollar holds deep sentimental value for Americans

The Kennedy Half-Dollar was first minted in 1964, paying tribute to President Kennedy after he was shot and killed in Dallas, Texas, on November 22, 1963, by Lee Harvey Oswald. The fallen leader was adored by the American public, and his death touched people deeply, contributing to the immense value of the Kennedy Half Dollar, with rare specimens fetching incredible prices.

The historical significance of the Kennedy Half-Dollar

The Kennedy Half-Dollar was released a year after Kennedy's tragic death while the country was still in mourning and reeling from the assassination. The design was finalized just months after his passing, reflecting the urgency and dedication to commemorating him.

The Kennedy Half-Dollar was widely circulated among the public, unlike most commemorative specimens that remained exclusive, and Americans were grateful for the opportunity to express their grief by attributing value to the cherished coins. The combination of historical importance and accessibility has cemented the Kennedy Half-Dollar as a token of remembrance and national solidarity.

Another American coin that has immense historical value is the Lady Liberty “Flowing Hair” specimen, considered the most valuable in the United States after one sold for $10 million.

What is the symbolism of the Kennedy coin's design?

The Kennedy Half-Dollar is profoundly symbolic, and the item's designers poured their regard for the popular president into the design, reflecting America's values and highlighting the president's legacy.

Obverse: President Kennedy's profile

A noble profile of President John F. Kennedy appears on the obverse of the coin. Inscribed alongside his image are:

These elements combine to pay tribute to Kennedy's powerful leadership and solid vision.

Reverse: The Presidential Seal

The symbolic weight of the Kennedy Half-Dollar is enhanced by the appearance of the Presidential Seal on the reverse of the coin.

These elements of the design epitomize the coin as a symbol of the resilience of the American people and their identity as a nation of unity and value.

A shift in silver composition impacted the value of the Kennedy Half-Dollar

The composition of the Kennedy Half-Dollar changed over the years, ultimately impacting its value and desirability among collectors. Here's how the composition progressed:

The 1964 version stands out in value

The first versions of the Kennedy Half-Dollar, made in 1964 with 90% silver content, are the most sought-after due to both the silver content and the historical value. Specimens from this year in good condition are rare and will likely fetch impressive sums into the thousands of dollars at auction.

The reduction of the silver to 40% in 1965 decreased the coin’s value, though these versions are still valuable among collectors. The switch to copper-nickel-clad items in 1971 made these items far less valuable than the silver versions.

There are a number of valuable American coins that are still in circulation and learning how to identify them may make you a tidy profit one day. One of these is the Lincoln Steel Cent.