Discovering a rare and valuable coin in your everyday change can be an exciting surprise, especially when it comes to half-dollar coins. Some of these coins carry historical importance, unique minting errors, or were part of limited production runs, all of which increase their value.
Let’s explore the top ten valuable half-dollar coins you might stumble upon in circulation today.
1. 1952 Franklin Half Dollar
The 1952 Franklin Half Dollar stands out as one of the last coins to feature Benjamin Franklin. Its relatively low mintage makes it highly desirable among collectors. If you find one of these in excellent condition, it could be worth between $50 and $200, depending on its grade.
2. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
Minted shortly after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar holds a special place in history. This was the only Kennedy half-dollar with a 90% silver content, making it especially valuable. Collectors are willing to pay anywhere from $10 to $100 or more, based on the coin’s condition and silver content.
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
This half-dollar, minted in Denver, was the last to contain silver (with a 40% silver composition). Released only in special collector sets, it’s rare to find one in general circulation. A 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar can fetch between $50 and $200 in good condition, thanks to its low mintage.
4. 1948 Franklin Half Dollar
The 1948 Franklin Half Dollar was the first in its series, making it a coin of historical significance. Coins in uncirculated condition hold greater value and typically sell for $50 to $150, depending on the grade. This coin’s appeal comes from being the series’ inaugural edition.
5. 1966 Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1966 Kennedy Half Dollar may look like a regular half-dollar at first glance, but it has a 40% silver content, setting it apart from modern coins. Because of this, collectors value it higher than its face value. Depending on its condition, it can range in value from $10 to $50.
6. 1955 Franklin Half Dollar
Known for its lower mintage, the 1955 Franklin Half Dollar is a prize for collectors, particularly in high-grade condition. This coin can command prices from $50 to $200 or more, as collectors seek out its rare design and history.
7. 1949-D Franklin Half Dollar
Another rare find, the 1949-D Franklin Half Dollar was minted in Denver and had a limited production. When in excellent condition, this coin can be valued at $100 to $500 or more, making it one of the more sought-after pieces in the Franklin Half Dollar series.
8. 1963 Franklin Half Dollar
As the final year of the Franklin Half Dollar series, the 1963 edition holds significance for collectors. In uncirculated condition, it’s worth between $50 and $150, mainly because it marks the end of an era for Franklin Half Dollars.
9. 1976 Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar
Minted to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, the 1976 Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar features a special reverse design. While many of these coins are still found in circulation, those in mint condition or made from silver (from collector sets) can be valued at $10 to $50 or more.
10. 1938-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar
One of the rarest and most coveted coins, the 1938-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar is a “key date” coin due to its very low mintage. In high-grade condition, it can range from $100 to $1,000 or even more, making it an extraordinary find for any collector.
Top 10 Most Valuable Half Dollar Coins
| Year and Type | Mint Mark | Silver Content | Approximate Value (Condition-Based) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1952 Franklin Half Dollar | None | None | $50 – $200 |
| 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar | None | 90% | $10 – $100 |
| 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar | D | 40% | $50 – $200 |
| 1948 Franklin Half Dollar | None | None | $50 – $150 |
| 1966 Kennedy Half Dollar | None | 40% | $10 – $50 |
| 1955 Franklin Half Dollar | None | None | $50 – $200 |
| 1949-D Franklin Half Dollar | D | None | $100 – $500 |
| 1963 Franklin Half Dollar | None | None | $50 – $150 |
| 1976 Bicentennial Half Dollar | None | 40% (only in special sets) | $10 – $50 |
| 1938-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar | D | 90% | $100 – $1,000 |
Half-dollar coins can hold far more than their face value, especially if you know what to look for. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, these coins offer a rewarding hunt. So, keep an eye on your change—you might just find a hidden treasure!
FAQs
Look for coins with unique dates, mint marks, and high silver content. Coins with historical value or minting errors are also often valuable.
You can sell them to coin dealers, online auction sites, or through collector communities. Make sure to research reputable buyers.
No, only certain years and series of half-dollar coins contain silver. For example, Kennedy half dollars from 1964 are 90% silver, and those from 1965 to 1970 have 40% silver content.
A mint mark indicates where the coin was minted (e.g., D for Denver, S for San Francisco). You can typically find it near the date or on the reverse side.
While Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollars are often found in circulation, their unique design makes them popular with collectors. Silver versions from collector sets are worth more.
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