Half dollar coins, though often overlooked, can be treasures worth thousands. Collectors prize certain half dollars for their rarity, historical significance, and unique features. Let’s delve into seven of the most valuable half dollars and learn how to identify them.
1. 1796 Draped Bust Half Dollar (16 Stars Variety)
The 1796 Draped Bust half dollar with 16 stars is a numismatic gem. The 16 stars represent Tennessee’s admission as the 16th state. With a mintage of only 3,918 coins, its rarity is undeniable. In pristine condition, this coin has fetched over $1.8 million at auctions.
How to Spot It:
- Obverse: Features Lady Liberty with flowing hair, encircled by 16 stars.
- Reverse: Showcases a small eagle surrounded by a wreath, with the fraction “1/2” beneath.
2. 1797 Draped Bust Half Dollar (15 Stars Variety)
Another rarity from the 18th century, the 1797 Draped Bust half dollar with 15 stars is highly sought after. Only 2,984 were minted, and it’s estimated that fewer than 200 exist today. In 2015, one graded MS66 sold for a staggering $1.5 million.
How to Spot It:
- Obverse: Lady Liberty with 15 stars encircling her.
- Reverse: Similar to the 1796 version, with a small eagle and wreath.
3. 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar
The 1838-O half dollar holds the distinction of being the first half dollar minted in New Orleans. With only 20 known specimens, its rarity is unparalleled. In Extremely Fine-40 grade, it can command prices around $300,000.
How to Spot It:
- Obverse: Features Liberty wearing a cap, with the date 1838 below.
- Reverse: An eagle with outstretched wings and the “O” mintmark below the eagle, indicating New Orleans.
4. 1919-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The 1919-D Walking Liberty half dollar is a key date for collectors. Its low mintage and difficulty in finding high-grade specimens make it valuable. In 2016, an MS66 graded coin sold for $188,000.
How to Spot It:
- Obverse: Depicts Lady Liberty walking with the sun rising behind her.
- Reverse: An eagle perched on a rock, with the “D” mintmark on the left, indicating Denver.
5. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (Accented Hair Variety)
Introduced after President Kennedy’s assassination, the 1964 Kennedy half dollar has a rare “Accented Hair” variety. This version was part of the initial proof coins but was soon altered, making it scarce. High-grade specimens can be worth several thousand dollars.
How to Spot It:
- Obverse: Look for sharper, more defined hair above Kennedy’s ear.
- Reverse: The “I” in “LIBERTY” has a truncated serif.
6. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1970-D Kennedy half dollar was not released for general circulation but was included in mint sets, making it relatively rare. In high grades, it can fetch significant sums, with some specimens selling for over $1,000.
How to Spot It:
- Obverse: Standard Kennedy profile with the date 1970.
- Reverse: Features the presidential coat of arms, with the “D” mintmark below the olive branch.
7. 1967 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half Dollar
In 1967, the U.S. Mint produced Special Mint Sets instead of proof sets. Some of these half dollars have an “Ultra Deep Cameo” finish and, in near-perfect condition, can be extremely valuable. One such coin sold for $6,995 in November 2020.
How to Spot It:
- Obverse and Reverse: Coins with a deep mirror-like background and frosted features.
- No Mint Mark: Intentionally produced without a mint mark between 1965 and 1967.
FAQs
What makes a half dollar valuable?
Several factors contribute to a half dollar’s value: rarity, historical significance
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