The Kennedy: In rare coin collecting few coins conjure as much wonder or sentiment as the Kennedy Half Dollar – a coin brought into existence by national calamity and coined as a tribute to a cherished U.S. president. But although most Kennedy Half Dollars are worth no more than the 50-cents they represent, one rare version of the coin is now worth the incredible sum of $5.9 million, beggaring the question for collectors and average Joes alike: could a similar fortune be out there somewhere just waiting to turn up in circulation?
A Tribute to President Kennedy
The Kennedy Half Dollar was made available to the public in 1964, shortly after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The coin, designed by Gilroy Roberts (obverse) and Frank Gasparro (reverse), was immediately seen as conveying an important message about American history and pride.
The 1964 edition is 90 percent silver, which by itself makes it more valuable than its successors. But not all Kennedy Half Dollars are created equal — and some are exceptionally rare.
The $5.9 Million Mystery Coin
For the most part, the Kennedy Half Dollar coins are still collected today for nominal amounts of money, except for this one seventeen-year-old coin – the 1964 Special Strike Kennedy Half Dollar – it is more of a legend than a coin. Few of these ever made it into production, possibly less than 10, and their rarity, historical significance and near-perfect condition have pushed their worth into the seven figures.
One of the coins has, it has been reported as having sold, in a private transaction for $5.9 million, more than doubling the all time auction record for a modern coin.
Still in Circulation?
The short answer is: sort of — Kennedy Half Dollars are still struck and in circulation, but not widely used as a form of currency. Though it is highly improbable, there are probably a few rare and valuable specimens stashed in old drawers, coin jars or bank rolls still waiting to be discovered.
Collectors suggest checking:
- Coins from 1964 (particularly shiny specimens or coins with near full detail)
- Mint marks or errors (such as double strikes or coins on the wrong planchet)
- Uncirculated or proof-like coins that your friend is likely to have lost or banged around
Why It Matters
This is more than just a story about a coin. It’s about the idea that even mundane items may be worth something, financially or historically. For those who were the fortunate recipients of cast off change from previous generations or coin collectors who hunt for treasure in bank rolls, the Kennedy Half Dollar has remained a symbol of hope, curiosity and the occasional stroke of luck.
Final Thoughts
It may sound hard to believe that a $5.9-million coin could still be loose coin — but these sorts of rarities are not without precedents that they were hiding in plain sight. For both numismatists and casual coin procurers alike, the Kennedy Half Dollar is not a coin to dismiss at first glance. (You never know — that next coin you find could change your life.)
