18 Rare Kennedy Half Dollars to Look for in 2026: The Kennedy Half Dollar remains one of America’s most collected modern coins, first issued in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy after his assassination. While many examples are common, certain dates, mint errors, and silver compositions can command impressive premiums.
As we move into 2026, interest in modern varieties and overlooked pocket finds continues to rise. Below is a detailed collector’s guide to 18 rare and valuable Kennedy Half Dollars worth watching for in circulation, bank rolls, estate collections, and coin shows.
Key Highlights for 2026 Collectors
Before diving into the list, keep these value drivers in mind:
- 90 percent silver composition in 1964 issues
- 40 percent silver composition from 1965–1970
- Low-mintage branch mint releases
- Proof-only and special mint set varieties
- Doubled dies and striking errors
- High-grade condition with strong luster
- Deep cameo proof contrast
Even circulated examples can carry significant value depending on variety.
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (Philadelphia, 90 Percent Silver)
The first-year issue remains highly collectible.
- Composition: 90 percent silver
- Strong demand from both investors and collectors
- High-grade uncirculated examples bring strong premiums
- Accented Hair variety is especially desirable
The Accented Hair proof variety shows stronger hair detail above Kennedy’s ear.
2. 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar (Denver, 90 Percent Silver)
Minted in massive numbers but still desirable in pristine grades.
- 90 percent silver content
- High-grade MS66 and above examples are scarce
- Attractive toning increases desirability
Gem-quality coins can command notable premiums.
3. 1964 Accented Hair Proof
A short-lived design modification.
- Found only in early proof sets
- Distinctive hair detail and missing serif on the I in Liberty
- Strong collector demand
Certified high-grade examples can reach substantial values.
4. 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar (40 Percent Silver Transition Year)
Silver content reduced after 1964.
- 40 percent silver clad composition
- No mint mark used this year
- Scarce in top mint-state grades
Look for sharp strikes and minimal contact marks.
5. 1966 SMS (Special Mint Set) Kennedy Half
Special Mint Set issues replaced traditional proofs from 1965–1967.
- Satin-like finish
- No mint mark
- Cameo examples are scarce
Deep cameo specimens are highly collectible.
6. 1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
The final year of Special Mint Sets.
- 40 percent silver
- Strong cameo contrast commands premium
- High-grade certified examples rising in value
Exceptional eye appeal increases demand.
7. 1968-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Proof production resumed at the United States Mint facility in San Francisco.
- 40 percent silver
- First S-mint proof of the series
- Deep cameo versions highly sought
Look for flawless mirrored fields.
8. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
A key modern rarity.
- Issued only in mint sets
- Low mintage compared to earlier years
- 40 percent silver composition
Often missing from circulated collections.
9. 1972 No FG Variety
An intriguing design anomaly.
- Missing designer initials FG on reverse
- Found on Philadelphia issues
- Popular among variety collectors
Well-preserved examples carry strong premiums.
10. 1974-D Doubled Die Obverse
A notable error variety.
- Visible doubling in lettering
- Scarce and desirable
- Certified examples command strong prices
Always examine inscriptions carefully.
11. 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Proof
Issued to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary.
- Dual date 1776–1976
- 40 percent silver composition
- Deep cameo proof examples are highly valuable
Part of special Bicentennial sets.
12. 1987-P and 1987-D Kennedy Halves
Not released for circulation.
- Sold only in mint sets
- Lower mintage than surrounding years
- Often overlooked in collections
High-grade examples remain in steady demand.
13. 1998-S Matte Finish Silver Kennedy Half
A modern key date.
- Special collector issue
- Matte satin finish
- Limited mintage
One of the most valuable modern Kennedy halves.
14. 2001-S Silver Proof Deep Cameo
Modern proofs with exceptional contrast.
- Silver composition
- Deep cameo designation increases value
- Popular with registry set collectors
Look for flawless surfaces.
15. 2014-W 50th Anniversary Gold Kennedy Half
A standout commemorative.
- Struck in 24-karat gold
- Released for the 50th anniversary
- Carries intrinsic gold value plus numismatic premium
Highly collectible among modern enthusiasts.
16. 2019-S Reverse Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Modern reverse proof issue.
- Mirror-like devices and frosted fields
- Limited production
- Strong secondary market demand
A visually striking addition to collections.
17. 2020-W Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Recent West Point release.
- W mint mark
- Limited availability
- Strong interest from modern collectors
Proof condition examples dominate the market.
18. 1964 SMS Specimen Strike
One of the series’ great mysteries.
- Extremely limited production
- Distinct satin finish
- Believed to be experimental strikes
These rare specimens can command extraordinary prices at auction.
How to Spot Valuable Pocket Finds
When searching bank rolls or change:
- Check edges for silver (solid silver edge without copper stripe)
- Inspect mint marks and designer initials
- Use magnification for doubled dies
- Preserve coins in protective holders
- Avoid cleaning, which reduces value
Even circulated silver issues carry intrinsic melt value.
Estimated Value Ranges (2026 Market Snapshot)
Approximate retail values vary by grade:
- Circulated 1964 silver: $10–$15
- High-grade 1970-D: $75–$150+
- 1998-S Matte Silver: $400–$800+
- 2014-W Gold: dependent on gold spot price, often $1,200+
- Rare SMS specimens: auction-dependent, often five figures
Condition, certification, and eye appeal remain critical.
Final Thoughts
The Kennedy Half Dollar series offers one of the most accessible yet rewarding collecting opportunities in modern U.S. coinage. From early 90 percent silver issues to rare mint varieties and modern limited releases, the potential for valuable discoveries remains strong in 2026.
Whether you are roll hunting, upgrading a registry set, or exploring estate collections, these 18 rare Kennedy Half Dollars represent some of the most exciting opportunities for collectors and investors alike.