The routine cleaning was suddenly transformed into a golden moment for an Ohio family when their late grandfather’s toolbox yielded a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar valued at over $50,000. This rare coin was minted in honor of the late President John F. Kennedy and has entranced the collectors. This article dwells on the value of this coin, its historical significance, and how to identify such treasures.
The Find
While sorting their grandfather’s garage, they discovered an old rusty box, which contained a shiny 1964-dated Kennedy Half Dollar in wax paper. Initially, it was seen as a memento; then questions started surfacing due to the unusual characteristics of the half dollar. When taken to a local coin shop, the experts thought it to be an outrageously rare piece worth over $50,000 as per its condition-a rare enough feat to turn any mundane occurrence into a numismatic fortune.
Why It Is Valuable
This particular coin was minted a few months after JFK was assassinated in 1963; struck for circulation in 90% silver. This rare proof has the double die obverse error, where the design appears doubled; and perhaps the “Accented Hair” variety: distinguished by very fine hair details above Kennedy’s ear. The coin’s desirability is greatly enhanced by its close-to-mint condition, probably carefully contained for decades; similar coins have reached $50,000–$75,000 in auction.
Historical Importance
The 1964 Half Dollar, issued within months of Kennedy’s death, became a symbol of national mourning. Millions of coins were minted, but of these, only a few display errors, like the double die or proof strikes, SMS coins, or Accented Hair varieties. Their rarity, together with the coin’s 90% silver composition, makes them highly sought, with some SMS coins selling for as high as $156,000.
How To Spot A Valuable Kennedy Coin
- Check the Year: The year 1964 focuses on coins made of 90% silver and weighing 12.5 grams.
- Look for Errors: A magnifying glass could reveal doubled lettering or images denoting a double die error.
- Examine Condition: Coins with perfect surfaces with mirror finish could very easily be proofs or SMS strikes.
- Mint Marks: Look for “D” (Denver) or no mint mark, as in rare SMS coins.
- Never Clean Coins: Cleaning reduces value; seek information from a professional grader, such as PCGS or NGC.
What To Do Of You Find One
If you suspect you have one of the rare Kennedy Half Dollar, be gentle handling the coin and put it in a plastic sleeve. No cleaning, please; endeavors to clean would only reduce the value. Find a coin dealer or grading service to get it authenticated. The Ohio family aims to auction the coin with proceeds going to the education fund while still cherishing the legacy attached to their grandfather.