What Are Half Dollars Worth? More Than Just 50 Cents

A half dollar coin, a denomination of United States currency, holds a face value of 50 cents. While many half dollars are worth only this amount, certain issues can command significantly higher values due to their metallic composition or appeal to collectors. This article guides readers through factors determining if their half dollars possess value beyond their face value, helping identify potential worth in their collections or finds.

Basic Value of Half Dollars

The fundamental value of any half dollar begins with its face value, which is 50 cents. For many modern half dollars, this is the only value they possess, as their metallic content does not contribute to their worth. Half dollars minted from 1971 to the present day are composed of a copper-nickel clad material, with an outer layer of 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a pure copper core.

These coins, such as the Kennedy Half Dollar series produced since 1971, are intended for circulation and do not contain precious metals. Consequently, their intrinsic melt value is less than their face value. Unless a modern half dollar exhibits a rare error or a unique characteristic sought by collectors, its value remains at its fifty-cent denomination. This distinction helps understand why some half dollars are merely pocket change, while others hold greater financial significance.

Silver Half Dollars and Their Value

Certain half dollars derive value from their silver content, making them worth more than their face value. The presence and percentage of silver vary depending on the coin’s mintage year. Identifying these silver coins is often the first step in assessing their worth.

90% Silver Half Dollars

Half dollars minted in 1964 and earlier contain 90% silver and 10% copper. This category includes Franklin Half Dollars (1948-1963) and 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars. These coins are easily identifiable by their date and often by a distinct solid silver-colored edge, unlike the copper stripe visible on clad coins. Their value is directly tied to the fluctuating market price of silver, known as their “melt value.”

40% Silver Half Dollars

Following the 1964 issue, Kennedy Half Dollars minted between 1965 and 1970 contain 40% silver and 60% copper. The value of these 40% silver half dollars is linked to the prevailing silver market price, though their melt value is lower due to the decreased silver percentage. Recognizing the specific dates and understanding the silver content is important for estimating their metallic value.

Numismatic Value Beyond Silver

Beyond their metallic content, many half dollars, including both silver and clad issues, can possess numismatic value, or worth to collectors. This value is influenced by factors such as rarity, condition, and unique characteristics.

Rarity and Key Dates

A coin’s rarity plays an important role in its numismatic value. Certain half dollars are considered “key dates” because they were minted in very low quantities or a limited number have survived. Some proof coins from specific years can be quite rare. Even small variations in mintage figures or survival rates for a particular year and mint mark can lead to an increase in a coin’s desirability and market price.

Mint Marks

Mint marks are small letters or symbols on a coin that indicate where it was produced. Common mint marks include “D” for Denver, “S” for San Francisco, and “P” for Philadelphia, though some older Philadelphia coins may have no mint mark. The presence or absence of a mint mark, combined with the mintage year, can affect a coin’s rarity and value. Collectors often seek specific mint mark varieties to complete their sets or acquire rare issues.

Condition and Grading

The physical condition, or “grade,” of a half dollar is important in determining its numismatic value. Coins are categorized as circulated or uncirculated. An uncirculated coin, which retains its original luster and sharp details, will be more valuable than a heavily worn circulated coin of the same type. Collectors prioritize coins in better condition, as they are scarcer and more aesthetically appealing.

Error Coins

Manufacturing errors can transform an ordinary half dollar into a valuable collectible. These errors occur during the minting process and can include double dies or off-center strikes. Other errors, such as planchet errors or striking errors, can also make a coin unique. Such anomalies are sought after by error collectors, commanding prices exceeding their face or melt value.

What to Do With Your Half Dollars

Once you have assessed your half dollars for potential value, whether due to silver content or numismatic characteristics, knowing how to handle them is important. Taking steps can help preserve their condition and value. Mishandling coins can diminish their worth.

Proper Storage

Storing half dollars correctly is important to protect their condition and prevent damage. Coins should be kept in inert, archival-safe materials, such as Mylar flips, coin capsules made from inert plastics, or purpose-built coin albums. It is important to avoid storage materials containing polyvinyl chloride (PVC), as this material can degrade and damage a coin’s surface. Storage safeguards the coin from environmental elements and physical abrasions.

Cleaning Caution

Important advice for anyone with potentially valuable half dollars is to never clean them. While it might seem intuitive to clean a dirty or tarnished coin, doing so causes scratches and alters the coin’s original surface, reducing its numismatic value. Professional coin graders and collectors prefer coins with their original patina, even if dirty or toned. Any attempt at cleaning is detrimental to the coin’s worth.

Professional Appraisal

If you believe your half dollars might have value, seeking a professional appraisal is a good next step. Reputable coin dealers possess the expertise to evaluate coins. They can assess a coin’s authenticity, grade its condition, and estimate its market value. An appraisal can offer peace of mind and understanding of your coin’s worth.

Selling Avenues

Should you decide to sell your half dollars, several avenues are available. Local coin shops provide an option for direct sales or consignment, offering immediate assessment and potential cash offers. Online marketplaces and auction sites can reach a broader audience, yielding higher prices, but require careful handling of transactions and shipping. Attending coin shows also offers opportunities to connect with multiple dealers and collectors, allowing for competitive bids and advice.