Which Half Dollars Are Actually Worth Money?

Half dollars often possess hidden value beyond their face denomination. While most circulating half dollars are worth only fifty cents, certain characteristics can transform them into sought-after collectibles. Understanding these factors can help identify valuable coins.

Understanding the Basics of Half Dollar Valuation

A half dollar’s value is significantly influenced by its metallic composition, especially its silver content. Half dollars minted before 1965 contain 90% silver, holding approximately 0.3617 troy ounces. This high silver purity often gives them a melt value exceeding their face value. From 1965 to 1970, half dollars contained 40% silver, with about 0.1479 troy ounces per coin. After 1970, circulating half dollars generally contain no silver, being copper-nickel clad.

Beyond metal content, a coin’s rarity plays a substantial role in its market value. Rarity is often determined by mintage figures, the number of coins produced in a given year at a specific mint. Lower mintage numbers generally mean scarcer, more valuable coins. Mint marks (e.g., “D” for Denver, “S” for San Francisco, or no mark for Philadelphia) indicate the mint and can denote different mintage figures, impacting scarcity and value.

Coin errors and varieties also increase a half dollar’s worth. Errors result from mistakes during minting, such as off-center strikes or planchet errors. Varieties are intentional changes to the coin die or minor anomalies during die production, like doubled dies or repunched mint marks. A coin’s physical condition is another determinant of its value, with well-preserved specimens commanding higher prices.

Valuable Half Dollar Series and Key Dates

Several half dollar series appeal to collectors due to their historical importance, artistic designs, and rare issues. Barber Half Dollars (1892-1915) feature a design by Charles E. Barber and are 90% silver. Key dates include the 1892-O “Micro O” variety (unusually small mint mark) and the 1904-S (low mintage). Other scarce dates in higher grades include the 1895-S, 1913, 1914, and 1915.

Walking Liberty Half Dollars (1916-1947) are celebrated for their iconic design by Adolph A. Weinman and 90% silver composition. Notable rarities include the 1916-S (508,000 mintage) and the 1921-D, which, with only 208,000 pieces minted, is the lowest mintage of all Walking Liberty Half Dollars. The 1938-D is also sought-after due to its relatively low mintage. For 1916 and some 1917 coins, the mint mark is on the obverse; later issues have it on the reverse.

Franklin Half Dollars (1948-1963) contain 90% silver, featuring Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse. A famous variety is the “Bugs Bunny” error, where die clashing creates the appearance of two buck teeth from Franklin’s mouth. This variety is well-known on some 1955 Franklin Half Dollars, though it can appear on other dates. Another notable variety is the 1961 Doubled Die Reverse Proof.

Kennedy Half Dollars, issued in 1964, have varying silver content. 1964 issues are 90% silver, while 1965-1970 coins contain 40% silver. Most Kennedy half dollars minted after 1970 for circulation are copper-nickel clad and generally only worth face value, except for special collector issues or proofs.

Valuable errors and varieties exist, such as the 1964 Proof Heavily Accented Hair (extra incused lines in Kennedy’s hair). Doubled die varieties also exist for 1964 issues, affecting both obverse and reverse designs. Other errors include the 1968-S Proof Inverted Mint Mark, the 1974-D Doubled Die Obverse, and the 1982-P “No FG” variety (designer’s initials missing due to over-polished dies).

Assessing Coin Condition

The condition, or “grade,” of a half dollar is an important factor in determining its market value. Even for rare dates or those with precious metal content, a higher grade increases a coin’s desirability and price. Coin grading generally follows the Sheldon scale, ranging from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Uncirculated). Common descriptive grades include:

Good (G): Design visible but heavily worn.
Fine (F): Clear but worn details.
Very Fine (VF): Moderate wear on high points.
Extremely Fine (EF or XF): Minor wear visible under close inspection.
Uncirculated (Mint State or MS): No signs of wear from circulation.

Proper handling is important to preserve a coin’s condition. Always hold coins by their edges to avoid transferring oils and dirt. Soft cotton gloves can further protect coins during inspection. It is important to remember to never clean coins, as cleaning diminishes their value. Cleaning removes the coin’s original patina, which collectors prefer, and can leave microscopic scratches that permanently damage the surface.

For potentially valuable half dollars, professional grading services offer authentication and impartial assessment. Organizations like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) are industry leaders. These services encapsulate coins in secure, transparent holders, providing a definitive grade that instills confidence in buyers and sellers. While fees are associated with professional grading, it is a worthwhile investment for rare or high-value specimens to ensure accurate valuation and enhance liquidity.