Very few coins hold as much immediate appeal as the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar. The first such coin to enter circulation with the 1964 date (which actually went on sale to the public months after President Kennedy was assassinated), the 90% silver half dollar proved to be far more than just another date, prompting the hoarding of millions by folks who would not spend them.
But aside from poignant history, some 1964 Kennedy halves are tremendously valuable. From very low-mintage issues to silver content, these coins are a collector’s dream. This article discusses what it is about these 1964 halves that’s so special, and how to find them, as well as what they’re worth.
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Value Secrets
The Kennedy Half Dollar was introduced in February, 1964 in place of the Franklin Half. Originally, the first were made of 90% silver and became hoarded as mementos and investments. Although nearly 430 million 1964-dated coins had been struck, they disappeared from circulation quickly, driving up collector demand.
Silver Value and Melt Worth
The 1964 half has about.3617 ounces of silver. At today’s spot price of about $39.77 (late August, ’25) the coin’s bullion melt value is nearly $14.This creates a base value although it’s still monumentally more than face value with collectible premiums sending true value through the stratosphere.
Rare Varieties That Drive Value
Not all 1964 halves are created equally, however. Certain rare varieties and mintmarks can be worth a near fortune:
- 1964-Special Mint Set (SMS): An unknown, yet small quantity of coins were struck in the SMS style and featured a satin like finish and heavy die polish (estimated 20-50 non-proof coins minted). These ultra-rare poster pieces have fetched tens of thousands of dollars.
- 1964 Keennedy “Accented Hair” Proofs: Early proof strikes show added hair detail above Kennedy’s ear and without the “serif” on the “I” in LIBERTY. They are popular among high-end collectors, and the premium quoted far exceeds a normal Proof.
- Circulating 90% silver business strikes: For the higher end of the uncirculated range (e.g., MS grades), values run between $20-100+ Checks worth between grade and eye appeal.
Grading Makes a Difference
The condition of a coin has a great impact on its value. Here’s how value can vary:
| Type | Typical Value Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Melt (silver content) | $14 | Starting value calculated on the price of silver |
| Circulated 90% silver | $20–$50 | Condition-dependent |
| Gem UNC (MS65+) | $50–$150+ | Sharply detailed, clean surfaces |
| Proof (standard) | $16–$3,650 | Proof finish adds collector appeal |
| 1964 SMS | $20,000–$50,000+ | Rarely offered; best of the type |
| Accented Hair Proof | $100–$500+ | Rare variety among proofs |
How to Have an Eye for a 1964 Half
- Determine silver vs. Clad: 1964 halves are 90% silver; everything after that is not.
- Look at the finish: is it business strike, proof, or SMS satin?
- Pay attention to specific details: There is such as thing as extra hair detail (or an accented hair) which is indicative of rarity.
- Evaluate quality: MS or proof specimens command higher premiums.
Latest Update on 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Value Secrets
If you spot a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, don’t shrug it off. Although most are worth their silver melt or slight premiums, rare dates and types, such as Special Mint Sets and Accented Hair Proofs, are super valuable. Their impressive history and limited quantities help prop the demand as such, these coins are still shining stars in the collecting world.
FAQs
Why are 1964 Kennedy halves worth a lot of money?
They are 90% silver and in great demand because of how quickly they were hoarded and how emotional they are.
What’s an SMS Kennedy half?
Satiny Special Mint set strike about ~20–50 known, brought $47,000+.
What is the melt value?
About $14, at current silver prices.
What do you want for an Accented Hair proof?
Hundreds of dollars to a few thousand, depending on grade.
Should I get mine graded?
Yes, grading has added authenticity, marketability, and value potential to the coin.
