Is a 1967 Half Dollar Silver? Its Value and Composition

The Kennedy half dollar, first minted in 1964, quickly became a recognizable coin in American currency. Many people often wonder about the metallic content of these coins, especially those from specific years like 1967. This curiosity stems from historical changes in coinage composition, prompting questions about whether a 1967 half dollar contains silver.

Silver Composition of the 1967 Half Dollar

The 1967 Kennedy half dollar contains silver. It is composed of 40% silver and 60% copper, part of the “silver clad” series. This composition means the coin has an outer layer of silver and copper bonded to an inner core primarily made of copper. The specific weight of a 1967 half dollar is 11.5 grams, with approximately 0.1479 troy ounces of silver content.

This blend of metals was a transitional measure by the United States Mint. The decision to use a clad composition with reduced silver content was influenced by rising silver prices during that period. The 1967 half dollar stands out as one of the last U.S. circulating coins to contain any silver.

Evolution of Kennedy Half Dollar Silver Content

The silver content of the Kennedy half dollar underwent changes shortly after its introduction. The 1964 Kennedy half dollar was initially minted with a composition of 90% silver and 10% copper. This high silver content quickly led to hoarding, as its intrinsic value began to exceed the coin’s face value.

In response to hoarding, the U.S. Mint altered the composition for the years 1965 through 1970. During this period, including 1967, the half dollar’s silver content was reduced to 40%. This “silver clad” composition aimed to maintain some precious metal content while deterring hoarding. Beginning in 1971, the Kennedy half dollar’s composition changed again, removing all silver content and transitioning to a copper-nickel clad composition, still in use today.

Identifying Silver Kennedy Half Dollars

Identifying a silver Kennedy half dollar, particularly those from 1965-1970, involves a few visual and physical characteristics. The coin’s edge is a primary indicator. A 40% silver clad half dollar typically shows a faint copper line along its reeded edge, distinguishing it from 90% silver coins or copper-nickel clad coins.

Color and luster also provide clues; silver-clad coins often have a distinct sheen compared to copper-nickel counterparts. A magnet test can confirm a coin is not made of steel or other magnetic alloys, as silver is non-magnetic. Weight can also be a subtle indicator, with 40% silver coins weighing 11.5 grams, slightly less than 90% silver coins (12.5 grams) but more than later copper-nickel versions (11.34 grams).

Understanding Coin Value

The value of a 1967 Kennedy half dollar is determined by two factors: melt value and numismatic value. Melt value is based on the current market price of silver and the coin’s 40% silver content. As silver prices fluctuate, so does the inherent metal value.

Numismatic value depends on factors such as the coin’s condition, rarity, and unique features or errors. For most circulated 1967 half dollars, the value will largely align with their silver melt value. However, coins in high, uncirculated grades, or specific characteristics desired by collectors, can command prices above their melt value.