The 1968 Kennedy half dollar is a common but interesting piece for collectors because it contains 40% silver and was struck during a transition era for U.S. coinage. This guide explains what affects 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar values and gives practical prices and tips collectors use today.
1968 Kennedy Half Dollar Values: Quick Overview
In 1968 the half dollar remained 40% silver. That metal content gives the coin an intrinsic melt value that fluctuates with the silver market, while collector demand and condition add additional premiums.
Typical price ranges depend on condition and type (circulation strike vs. proof). Expect modest premiums for circulated pieces and larger premiums for high-grade Mint State or certified proof examples.
Types that affect 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar values
- Circulation strikes from Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (D).
- Proofs struck in San Francisco (S) sold in mint sets.
- Condition grades from Good (G) to Mint State (MS), which strongly influence value.
How Condition Affects 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar Values
Condition is the single largest non-metal factor for coin value. Grading terms — G, F, XF, AU, MS — indicate wear and surface quality. Certified grades from PCGS or NGC can significantly increase buyer confidence and price.
Common value patterns:
- Heavily circulated (G–F): Often sold close to melt value plus a small premium.
- Slightly circulated (XF–AU): Noticeable premium, often attractive for casual collectors.
- Uncirculated (MS60–MS65+): Prices rise quickly with grade; eye appeal and toning matter.
Examples of condition impact
- A typical circulated 1968 half may sell for a few dollars above face if silver price is stable.
- An MS63 certified coin might bring several times the melt value, depending on market demand.
- Proofs in original holders are sought by set collectors and often command higher prices than circulation strikes at the same grade.
Factors That Change Market Prices
Several practical factors affect what collectors are willing to pay for 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar values:
- Silver price: Sets a floor through melt value. Higher silver makes even low-grade coins worth more.
- Rarity and surviving quality: Few high-grade survivors mean higher prices for MS coins.
- Certification: Graded coins usually sell for more, especially at higher grades.
- Eye appeal: Toning, contact marks, and luster influence collector interest and price.
Where collectors buy and sell
Common venues include coin shops, local coin shows, online marketplaces like eBay, and auction houses for higher-end pieces. Each venue carries different fees and buyer expectations.
Real-World Case Study: A Small Sale and a Better Return
A collector brought three 1968 half dollars to a local coin dealer: one heavily circulated, one AU, and one uncirculated in a dealer sleeve. The dealer offered melt value for the circulated coin and small premiums for the AU piece.
What happened next: the collector listed the uncirculated coin online with a clear photo and a modest reserve. It sold to a collector for a higher price than the dealer quote, showing how venue and presentation matter.
Key lessons from this example:
- Get coins appraised in more than one place.
- Good photos and honest grading raise buyer trust online.
- Certification can add cost but often increases final sale price for high-grade coins.
Practical Price Ranges for 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar Values
Below are ballpark ranges to help you set expectations. Prices change with silver and market conditions, so treat these as starting points.
- Circulated common grades: Typically sell for slightly above melt value to around $5–$10 depending on silver.
- About Uncirculated (AU) grades: Often $10–$30 depending on eye appeal.
- Uncirculated certified MS60–MS63: Frequently $30–$100 depending on grade and market demand.
- High-grade MS64–MS67 or exceptional proofs: Can command hundreds of dollars in niche markets.
How to get a better price
- Clean coins should generally be avoided; surface cleaning lowers value.
- Use clear, well-lit photos when selling online and describe grade honestly.
- Consider third-party grading for coins you believe are high grade.
- Shop around between dealers, online marketplaces, and auctions for the best offer.
Final Practical Tips
Start by checking current silver prices to understand melt value. Compare completed sales of similar 1968 Kennedy half dollars on marketplaces to see what buyers recently paid.
If you own a single coin and need cash quickly, local dealers are fast but may pay less. If you have higher-grade coins or time to sell, online auctions and graded listings typically yield better returns.
With these points, you can better evaluate 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar values, set realistic prices, and choose the best sales route for your coins.