Kennedy Half Dollar Value Chart — Updated 2026
This guide explains how to use a Kennedy Half Dollar value chart and highlights the coins buyers and sellers should watch in 2026. The focus is practical: dates, grades, and realistic market values.
Why a Kennedy Half Dollar Value Chart matters
A value chart consolidates typical price ranges by date and grade. It saves time and reduces guesswork when checking collections or preparing to sell.
Charts combine recent auction results, dealer prices, and population data to give realistic value bands for circulated and uncirculated coins.
How to read the Kennedy Half Dollar Value Chart
Follow these steps to read any value chart accurately.
- Locate the year and mint mark—often the most important value driver.
- Match the coin’s grade or condition (Good, Fine, Extremely Fine, AU, MS) to the chart row.
- Use the chart’s value range as a guideline, not an exact sale price.
Key Kennedy Half Dollar Dates and Values
Below are the most commonly valuable Kennedy half dollars and why they matter. Values vary with grade and market demand.
1964 — 90% Silver
1964 Kennedys are 90% silver, giving them melt value plus collector premium. Circulated examples often track silver price, while higher-grade pieces carry a premium.
1965–1970 — 40% Silver
These years use 40% silver (clad core). They are less common in high grade than 1964 and can fetch higher premiums for certified Mint State coins.
1968-S and Key Mint Marks
Some mint marks and proof issues—especially clear S proofs and low-mintage variations—are sought after. Always check for mint marks on the obverse right side, near the truncation of Kennedy’s neck.
Typical Value Ranges (Examples)
These example ranges reflect the 2026 market. Use certified grades for more precise valuation.
- 1964 Circulated: $10–$25 (melt + premium)
- 1964 Uncirculated (MS60): $25–$75
- 1965–1970 Circulated: $3–$8
- 1965–1970 Uncirculated: $10–$60
- Proofs (1964 PR65+): $15–$150 depending on grade
Using Certification With the Chart
Certified coins (PCGS, NGC) have more stable market values. When comparing to the chart, always note the certification and grade number.
Uncertified coins are harder to price; the chart provides a wider range for those pieces.
How Condition Affects Price
Condition is usually the single largest factor after date and mint mark. Even common dates can command high prices in top mint state grades.
- Good (G) to Very Fine (VF): Mostly face value to small premiums.
- Extremely Fine (XF) to About Uncirculated (AU): Moderate premiums.
- Mint State (MS60–MS70): The largest price increases, especially above MS63.
Look for these condition markers
Sharp strike, full luster, and minimal contact marks increase value. Avoid coins with cleaning scratches or rim nicks.
The first Kennedy half dollars were struck in 1964 as a memorial to President Kennedy. The 1964 issue is 90% silver, while 1965–1970 pieces reduced silver to 40%.
Common Grading Tips for the Chart
Grading at home helps you use the chart, but it is not a replacement for professional grading if you suspect a high-value coin.
- Use a loupe (10x) to check for wear and contact marks.
- Compare luster and fields to known reference photos.
- When in doubt, send a candidate to a reputable third-party grader.
Spotting Counterfeits and Alterations
Be wary of cleaned coins, dipped surfaces, or added mint marks. Such alterations reduce value and may make a coin unsellable to serious collectors.
Real-World Example: A Small Case Study
Scenario: A collector found a bundled roll labeled 1964 Kennedy halves at a local estate sale.
They inspected three coins and found one MS63 certified example among circulated pieces. Using the 2026 value chart, they identified the certified MS63 as worth roughly $60–$90 and the circulated coins as melt value candidates.
Outcome: The collector sold the MS63 through a local auction house and kept the remaining coins for silver content, netting more than initial expectations after fees.
Quick Tips Before You Buy or Sell
- Always verify mint marks and dates under good light.
- Use recent auction results and dealer lists to compare chart values with real sales.
- Consider third-party grading for coins that could be worth significantly more in high grades.
- When selling, be transparent about condition and certification to build buyer trust.
Where to Find Updated Charts
Updated charts are available from coin dealer sites, numismatic magazines, and major grading services. Look for 2026-dated resources or monthly price guides to keep values current.
Use this Kennedy Half Dollar value chart guide as a practical reference. Keep notes on condition and provenance, and consult certified price lists when dealing with higher-value coins.