In the world of coin collecting, there’s a saying: “Not all half dollars are created equal.” And when it comes to the 1974 Kennedy half dollar, that adage holds true. While most of these coins are common and worth face value, there are some hidden gems that can fetch thousands of dollars. Let’s dive into the fascinating story behind these coins and explore their current value.
The Kennedy Half Dollar: A Tribute to JFK
The Kennedy half dollar was born out of tragedy. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, the U.S. government sought a fitting tribute to honor the fallen leader. The decision was swift: Kennedy’s image would grace the new half dollar. Within weeks, the first Kennedy half dollars were minted, and the public eagerly snapped them up. These small 90% silver pieces became cherished mementos of JFK’s legacy, available for just 50 cents each.
The Rarity Myth
Fast forward to 1974. By this time, the U.S. Mint had removed silver from circulation-strike Kennedy halves, yet the perception that these coins were special persisted. Millions of Americans held onto their half dollars, believing they were rare and valuable. But the truth is, 1974 half dollars are anything but scarce. The Philadelphia Mint alone struck over 201 million of these coins without a mintmark.
What’s It Worth?
So, how much is a 1974 Kennedy half dollar worth today? Let’s break it down:
- Circulated 1974 No-Mintmark Half Dollars: These typically fetch between $1 and $2 in average condition.
- Uncirculated 1974 No-Mintmark Half Dollars: In pristine, uncirculated condition, they can command even higher prices—up to $2,950 or more!
- Proof 1974-S Half Dollars: These specially minted coins, with their frosted lettering and design details, are valued at $2 to $3 and beyond.
- Cameo Proof 1974 Half Dollars: Extremely scarce, these cameo proof coins can be worth anywhere from $10 to $25 or more.
The Record Breaker
But wait, there’s more! In the world of numismatics, rarity can lead to jaw-dropping prices. A 1974 Kennedy half dollar graded MS68 by PCGS once set an auction record, selling for an astounding $8,000. Imagine finding one of those in your pocket change!
John joined blainecountycruise as the Associate Games Editor in 2022. With a Journalism degree and four years of freelancing experience, she is your expert on everything from CoD and Apex Legends to Genshin Impact and Monster Hunter. You can reach her at [email protected].