Imagine finding a coin in your pocket that could change your life forever. Sounds unbelievable, right? But there’s a rare Kennedy Half Dollar coin from 1964 that might still be circulating and is said to be worth up to $19.9 million! This article explains everything you need to know about this mysterious and valuable coin in simple, easy-to-understand language.
What Is the Kennedy Half Dollar?
The Kennedy Half Dollar is a U.S. coin first made in 1964. It was created to honor President John F. Kennedy after he was sadly assassinated in 1963. The coin shows Kennedy’s face on one side and the Presidential Seal on the other.
Who Designed It?
- Front (obverse) – Designed by Gilroy Roberts
- Back (reverse) – Designed by Frank Gasparro
What Is It Made Of?
- 1964 coins: 90% silver and 10% copper
- 1965–1970 coins: 40% silver
- 1971 and after: Copper-nickel (no silver)
The Mysterious $19.9 Million Coin
This rare coin is not just a regular Kennedy Half Dollar. Experts believe it is a 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) coin. These coins were not released to the public. Only a few exist, and they have a special satin-like finish, making them very different and valuable.
Why Is It So Special?
- Very few were made
- No mint mark
- Extra sharp and detailed design
- Not meant for general use
In 2016, one such coin was sold for $47,000, but rumors say a prototype or error coin could be worth as much as $19.9 million!
Main Features of the Rare Kennedy Coin
Here are some important details to help identify this rare coin:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1964 |
| Metal | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Look | Satin-like finish |
| Mint Mark | None |
| Weight | 12.5 grams |
| Size | 30.6 mm |
| Edge | Reeded (small vertical lines) |
| Value (Rumored) | Up to $19.9 million |
Is It Really in Circulation?
Some believe that one of these rare coins may have accidentally entered general circulation, possibly due to a minting mistake. Since it looks very similar to regular 1964 half dollars, many people may not even notice it!
Collectors and even regular people are now checking their coins more carefully, hoping to find this treasure.
How to Check If You Have the Rare Coin
To see if your 1964 half dollar might be worth a fortune, check for the following:
1. Year
Make sure your coin is from 1964.
2. No Mint Mark
Look for a plain coin with no mint letter near the date.
3. Special Finish
It should have a soft, satin-like look, not shiny or dull like regular coins.
4. Detailed Design
Kennedy’s hair and the eagle’s feathers should look very sharp and detailed.
5. Correct Size and Weight
Your coin should weigh 12.5 grams and measure 30.6 mm across.
If your coin matches these points, don’t try to sell it online. Instead, take it to a professional coin expert or a coin grading service like:
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
Why Is This Coin So Valuable?
This 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar is so rare that only a few exist in the world. Because of:
- Its rare type (Special Mint Set)
- Its unique finish
- Its mystery (how it got into circulation, if it did)
Some people believe one version of this coin could be a prototype or test coin, making it even more unique and worth millions.
Other Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars
Even if you don’t have this exact coin, some other Kennedy half dollars are also valuable:
- 1964 “Accented Hair” Proof
- 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
- 1982 “No FG” Half Dollar
Each of these coins has its own rare features and collector value.
Conclusion
The story of the $19.9 million Kennedy Half Dollar shows that even everyday coins can be valuable treasures. You might have something priceless in your coin jar without knowing it.
Keep an eye out for old coins, especially the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar with no mint mark and a satin finish. You never know — your next coin could be worth millions!
FAQ’S
Q1. Why is the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar worth so much?
Because it’s extremely rare, has a special finish, and was never meant for regular use.
Q2. How do I get my coin checked?
Send it to coin grading companies like PCGS or NGC.
Q3. Can I find this coin in my change?
It’s very rare, but yes, it’s possible one may have slipped into circulation.
Q4. What other Kennedy Half Dollars are valuable?
1964 Accented Hair, 1970-D, and 1982 No FG half dollars are also valuable.
Q5. Is silver in old coins valuable too?
Yes! Coins made before 1971 often have silver, which adds value.