The Kennedy Half Dollar was first made in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy after his death. It quickly became a special coin for many Americans. While most of these coins are still easy to find, there is one rare version that could be worth $19.9 million—and it might still be in someone’s pocket without them knowing.
This article shares the story of this rare coin, what makes it so valuable, and how you might find one.
The Start of the Kennedy Half Dollar
After President Kennedy was killed in 1963, the U.S. Mint wanted to honor him. They created the Kennedy Half Dollar, which replaced the Franklin Half Dollar in 1964.
The front of the coin shows Kennedy’s face, and the back shows the Presidential Seal. The first coins were made using 90% silver. But later, because silver prices went up, the U.S. Mint changed the metal.
Why This Coin is Worth $19.9 Million
This rare coin is believed to be from 1964. It was not made the usual way. Instead, it was struck on a silver planchet (metal blank) that was meant for a different coin. This type of mistake is very rare.
Collectors love rare coins with mistakes. That’s why this one is now said to be worth almost $20 million. It’s not just old—it’s one of a kind.
How to Spot the Rare Coin
It’s not easy to tell this rare coin apart from the regular ones. But here are a few things to look for:
- Metal Type: It was struck on a 90% silver planchet, but one that was not meant for this coin.
- Size and Weight: It weighs 12.50 grams and is 30.6 mm in diameter, just like the regular version.
- Mint Error: The main clue is that it was made using the wrong blank. This kind of error makes it extremely rare.
Why Coin Errors Matter
Errors in coins are very interesting to collectors. They happen when something goes wrong during minting. Some common errors are:
- Overstruck: The design is pressed more than once.
- Off-center: The design is not in the right place.
- Double Die: The design appears twice, slightly shifted.
- Wrong Planchet: The coin is made on the wrong metal blank. This is what happened with the rare Kennedy Half Dollar.
These mistakes are rare and often missed, which makes them more valuable.
The Coin Might Still Be Out There
Even though it’s worth millions, this coin might still be in someone’s change. It looks very much like a normal 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar. That means someone could be holding it and not even know how valuable it is.
It’s an exciting idea for collectors. One day, you might find this rare coin in a drawer or a piggy bank.
Comparison Table: Standard vs. Rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
| Feature | Standard 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar | Rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper | 90% silver (wrong planchet) |
| Weight | 12.50 grams | 12.50 grams |
| Diameter | 30.6 mm | 30.6 mm |
| Edge | Reeded | Reeded |
| Mint Mark | None or D | None or D |
| Rarity | Common | Extremely Rare |
| Value | $10–$50 | $19.9 million |
How to Avoid Fake Coins
As coin prices go up, fake coins are becoming more common. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Get it Checked: Use a coin grading service to confirm if a coin is real.
- Learn More: Study real coins so you can spot fake ones.
- Ask Experts: If you’re not sure, talk to a trusted coin dealer.
Last Thought
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is more than just an old coin. It’s a piece of history. Most of these coins are common, but one rare version is still out there, and it could be worth $19.9 million.
If you collect coins or just enjoy looking through your change, keep an eye out. You never know—you might find a small treasure that could change your life.
FAQs
What is the Kennedy Half Dollar?
It’s a U.S. coin made to honor President Kennedy.
Why is the rare one so valuable?
It was made by mistake using the wrong metal.
How can I find the rare coin?
Check 1964 coins for silver and mint errors.
Is it still in circulation?
Yes, it might still be with the public.
Can fake ones be found?
Yes, so always get coins checked.