Rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar :A surprising discovery in an ordinary home has brought new attention to one of America’s most iconic and valuable coins. A rare version of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, hidden away for decades in a Midwest home, was recently found—and experts say it could be worth a small fortune. This unexpected find reminds collectors and the general public alike that incredible value can be hiding in plain sight.
The Legacy of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar was introduced just months after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination in November 1963. Americans were mourning, and the U.S. Mint responded by creating a coin in his honor. It replaced the Franklin Half Dollar and was struck with a 90% silver content, which made it not only a meaningful tribute but also a valuable piece of metal. It quickly became a symbol of national remembrance and was widely collected. The coin’s initial mintage was high, but certain ultra-rare versions from that year are now highly coveted.
The Rare Find in a Midwest Home
In a quiet neighborhood in the Midwest, a family cleaning out a relative’s belongings stumbled upon an old coin drawer. Among the dusty pennies and nickels sat what appeared to be a regular Kennedy Half Dollar. But upon closer inspection by a coin expert, it was revealed to be one of the rare 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) strikes—a coin that was never meant for public release. This specific type of Kennedy Half Dollar is incredibly rare, with fewer than 20 known to exist. Its condition and rarity immediately attracted attention in the numismatic world.
What Makes the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar So Valuable?
Most 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are common, but the Special Mint Set (SMS) version stands out. Unlike standard strikes, these coins were produced with a special, high-quality finish and lack a mint mark. They were not part of any official release, and experts believe they may have been test strikes or presentation pieces. Their origin remains something of a mystery, which adds to their allure and value. When one surfaces, collectors are willing to pay tens of thousands due to the combination of rarity, historical significance, and exceptional detail.
How Much Could This Coin Be Worth?
Coins like the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar have fetched prices ranging from $20,000 to over $45,000 at auction, depending on condition and certification. If graded as “Specimen” (SP) by professional grading services like PCGS or NGC, the value increases dramatically. The coin found in the Midwest home is believed to be in near-pristine condition, meaning it could sell for a substantial amount if properly verified and listed. Even a less-than-perfect SMS coin can be worth a significant sum.
How to Know If You Have a Valuable Kennedy Half Dollar
If you have a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, start by checking its appearance. SMS coins usually have a satin-like finish with very sharp, squared-off rims. They also have no mint mark (unlike many Philadelphia or Denver-minted coins). Because these coins were not meant for circulation, their surfaces are usually near perfect. If you suspect you have one, do not clean it—instead, have it evaluated by a certified coin grading service. Even standard silver 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are worth more than face value due to their silver content.
Key Features and Values of 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars
| Type of Coin | Description | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Standard 1964 Half Dollar | 90% silver, common circulation | $10 – $20 (based on silver) |
| 1964-D Half Dollar | Minted in Denver, also 90% silver | $10 – $25 |
| 1964 SMS Half Dollar | Special strike, no mint mark, very rare | $20,000 – $50,000+ |
| High-Grade SP67/68 SMS Coin | Certified specimen in top condition | $40,000 – $55,000+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is a Special Mint Set (SMS) coin?
A: An SMS coin is a specially struck coin with a higher-quality finish than regular circulation coins. The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollars are especially rare and were likely experimental or presentation pieces.
Q: How can I tell if I have a 1964 SMS Half Dollar?
A: Look for a strong strike, satin-like finish, squared-off edges, and the absence of a mint mark. It will look sharper than a typical circulated coin. If you suspect it’s an SMS, have it graded by a professional.
Q: Are all 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars valuable?
A: While most are only worth their silver content (around $10–$20), certain rare versions like the SMS coins can be worth tens of thousands.
Q: Should I clean my coin before taking it to an expert?
A: No. Cleaning can damage the surface and significantly reduce its value. Always leave valuable coins in their natural state.
Q: Where can I sell a valuable Kennedy Half Dollar?
A: You can sell it through a reputable coin dealer, a professional auction house, or certified online marketplaces. Always get it graded first to determine its true value.
In a world where most coins are worth little more than their face value, the discovery of a rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar serves as an exciting reminder that history, art, and rarity can combine to produce treasures in the most unexpected places. Whether you’re a serious collector or simply curious about the change in your drawer, this story proves that it pays to take a second look.
