Do They Still Make Half Dollar Coins?
Get the definitive answer on half dollar production. Understand their unique modern status, why they're uncommon, and how to acquire them.
Half dollar coins, a denomination with a long history in the United States. Many people rarely encounter these coins in daily transactions, leading to questions about whether they are still produced. This article clarifies the current production and circulation of half-dollar coins, and provides practical information for those interested in obtaining them.
Current Production Status
The United States Mint continues to produce half-dollar coins annually, primarily the Kennedy Half Dollar design. While these coins are indeed legal tender, their production is largely directed towards collectors and numismatic markets rather than for general commerce. The U.S. Mint sells these newly minted half dollars directly to the public through various products, including annual coin sets and specialized rolls or bags. This direct-to-collector distribution means they typically do not enter the everyday banking system for widespread circulation.
Understanding Their Circulation
Half-dollar coins are rarely seen in daily transactions. Public preference has largely shifted towards smaller denominations like quarters and dimes, as well as dollar coins and paper currency, for convenience. Businesses and banks also exhibit limited demand for half dollars in their cash registers and vaults, further restricting their flow into general circulation. Consequently, their absence from daily commerce stems not from a halt in production but from their limited distribution channels and contemporary usage patterns.
How to Obtain Half Dollars
Several avenues are available to acquire half-dollar coins. The most direct method is purchasing them from the United States Mint website, which offers newly minted rolls, bags, and various collector sets. Another option is to inquire at local banks; while banks typically do not keep half dollars in stock for everyday withdrawals, they can often order full boxes, usually containing 500 coins, for customers. Additionally, coin dealers and numismatic shops frequently carry half dollars, including both newer issues and older, collectible specimens.
Brief History of Half Dollar Production
The half-dollar coin has undergone significant transformations since its introduction, evolving from a widely used denomination to its current niche status. Early designs like the Flowing Hair, Draped Bust, Capped Bust, Seated Liberty, and Walking Liberty half dollars were common in circulation for many years. A notable shift occurred in 1964 with the introduction of the Kennedy Half Dollar, following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Initially, these coins contained 90% silver, but this was reduced to 40% silver in 1965 due to rising silver prices and then entirely removed from circulating issues by 1971, transitioning to a copper-nickel clad composition. This change, coupled with declining public usage, contributed to their eventual scarcity in everyday commerce.