The 1776–1976 Kennedy Bicentennial half dollar is a beloved U.S. commemorative coin — but certain rare error varieties can make it worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
At PennyVerse.info, we’ve researched recent eBay sales and auction records to bring you the definitive value guide for these collectible errors.
Most Valuable Bicentennial Half Dollar Errors
Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
- Description: Clear doubling in “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the date.
- Key Varieties:
- FS-101 (Strong doubling) – $300 to $1,500
- FS-102 (Moderate doubling) – $150 to $800
- Recent Sale: $1,250 (FS-101, AU-55)
Doubled Die Reverse (DDR)
- Description: Doubling in Independence Hall details.
- Value Range: $200 to $1,000
- Record Sale: $950 (MS-64, 2023)
Off-Center Strikes (10–40%)
- Description: Part of the design is missing.
- Value Range:
- 10–20% Off-Center – $50 to $150
- 30–40% Off-Center – $200 to $800
- Most Valuable: 35–40% off-center with date visible
Clipped Planchet Errors
- Description: Crescent-shaped missing metal on the coin’s edge.
- Value Range: $75 to $400
- Premium Example: Multiple clip errors
How to Identify These Errors
Step-by-Step Inspection Guide
- Check Lettering – Use 10x magnification to spot doubling in “IN GOD WE TRUST”.
- Examine the Date – Look for notching or separation in “1776–1976”.
- Inspect the Reverse – Focus on Independence Hall for doubling or weak strike areas.
- Review the Edges – Look for clipped or irregular planchets.
Recommended Tools
10x Jeweler’s Loupe – For clear magnification
LED Light Source – To highlight surface details
Digital Microscope – For advanced error detection
2024 Market Trends
- Strong DDO varieties remain in highest demand
- 40% silver versions command ~20% premium
- Certified errors sell for 2–3× raw coin prices
- Complete error sets are gaining collector interest
Where to Sell Your Bicentennial Error Half Dollar
| Error Type | Best Venue | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Major DDO/DDR | Heritage Auctions | $500–$5,000 |
| Off-Center 20%+ | eBay | $100–$800 |
| Clips/Double Strikes | Facebook Groups | $75–$400 |
Selling Tips
Use high-resolution photos to show the error clearly
Compare to recent sales before setting a price
Consider PCGS or NGC grading for coins worth $500+
FAQs About Bicentennial Half Dollar Errors
Q: Are all 1776–1976 half dollars valuable?
A: No — only coins with significant errors are worth more than face value (most are $0.50–$3).
Q: How many doubled die varieties exist?
A: At least five confirmed major varieties, with FS-101 being the most valuable.
Q: Where’s the best place to find these errors?
A: Original bank rolls, estate sales, and older coin collections.
Free Resources from PennyVerse.info
Bicentennial Error Checklist- How to Photograph Coin Errors
Current Error Value Guide
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