🪙 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar “Accented Hair” Proof Guide 🪙
Did you know that a small variation in the strands of JFK’s hair could make your 50-cent piece worth thousands? The 1964 “Accented Hair” variety is a legendary error that has collectors hunting through every proof set they find.
🚨 Description: The Error Jacqueline Kennedy Rejected
When the Kennedy Half Dollar was first designed in 1964, the initial proof versions featured heavily detailed, “accented” hair. After seeing the design, Jacqueline Kennedy requested it be softened, leading the Mint to alter the dies for all subsequent coins. Because this change happened so early, it is estimated that less than 5% of all 1964 proof coins carry the rare original “Accented Hair” design.
💰 [Value]
While standard 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are prized for their 90% silver content, the “Accented Hair” variety commands a massive numismatic premium.
-
Raw/Circulated: $20 – $85.
-
Certified High Grades (PF67-PF68): $1,000 – $19,975.
-
The Holy Grail (PF70 Deep Cameo): Pristine examples have the potential to fetch up to $46,000 or more at elite auctions.
📊 Market Value Analysis
The market for early Kennedy rarities is currently high, especially for coins with Deep Cameo (DCAM) contrast.
🏆 Top Auction Houses
For coins valued over $1,000, professional auction houses are the best way to realize the highest market price:
-
Heritage Auctions: Holds the record for many high-value Kennedy sales.
-
Stack’s Bowers Galleries: Renowned for selling elite, registry-set quality coins.
-
GreatCollections: A top choice for selling certified coins through weekly online auctions.
🛡️ 4. 5-Step Authentication Protocol (Must Read!)
Before celebrating a find, verify your coin using these standard authentication steps:
-
Identify the “Accented Hair”: Look at the hair directly above JFK’s ear. The rare variety has deep, distinct strands and a truncated “I” in the word “LIBERTY” (the bottom left serif of the ‘I’ is missing).
-
Verify the Metal: All 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars should be 90% silver and 10% copper.
-
Weight Check: A genuine 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar must weigh 12.5 grams.
-
Edge Inspection: Look for a reeded edge with no copper “sandwich” line, which would indicate a later, less valuable clad coin.
-
Professional Grading: If your coin meets these criteria, send it to PCGS or NGC for official certification to secure its maximum value.
🔍 How to Check If Your Nickel Is Valuable
While you’re searching, keep an eye out for these rare nickels:
-
1942-1945 War Nickels: Look for a large mint mark (P, D, or S) above the Monticello building—these contain 35% silver.
-
1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo: A famous mint error where the buffalo appears to have only three legs.
-
1913 Liberty Head: One of the world’s rarest coins, with only five known examples.
🏁 Conclusion & Final Thoughts
The 1964 Accented Hair Kennedy Half Dollar is a perfect example of how a small historical preference can create a modern-day treasure. While many are found in old proof sets, the highest-valued versions are those in pristine, “Deep Cameo” condition. Always handle your coins by the edges only to avoid damaging the delicate proof surfaces.
📣 [Call to Action] Do you have any 1964 Proof Sets? Open them up and look closely at JFK’s hair! If the strands look extra deep and the “I” in Liberty is missing a foot, you might be sitting on a fortune! Comment “COIN” below if you want a visual guide sent to your DMs!
Would you like me to help you find a local ANA-member dealer to evaluate your collection?
