Kennedy Half Dollar Value Chart 2026: The Kennedy Half Dollar remains one of the most widely collected modern American coins. First issued in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, the coin quickly became both a national memorial and a collector favorite. Even today in 2026, it continues to attract attention from numismatists, silver investors, and beginners entering the hobby.
In this complete guide, you will find a properly structured value chart table for 2026, key dates, rare varieties, grading insights, silver melt considerations, and the latest collector market trends shaping prices this year.
Brief History of the Kennedy Half Dollar
The Kennedy Half Dollar was introduced in 1964, just months after the assassination of President Kennedy. The United States Mint replaced the Franklin Half Dollar with this new design as a tribute. Public demand was overwhelming, and millions of Americans saved the coin as a keepsake.
The 1964 issue was struck in 90 percent silver. Due to rising silver prices and coin hoarding, the composition changed in 1965 to 40 percent silver. By 1971, regular circulation coins were made from copper nickel clad.
Although the coin rarely circulates today, it remains actively minted for collectors and continues to hold strong historical and investment appeal in 2026.
Kennedy Half Dollar Silver Content Breakdown
Understanding metal composition is essential when evaluating value.
1964
90 percent silver
0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver
1965 to 1970
40 percent silver
0.1479 troy ounces of pure silver
1971 to present circulation strikes
Copper nickel clad
No silver content except special collector issues
Because silver prices remain firm in 2026, all silver Kennedy Half Dollars carry a strong melt value floor.
Kennedy Half Dollar Value Chart 2026
Below is a properly formatted value chart for 2026. Prices reflect average retail market ranges and may vary depending on eye appeal, strike quality, and certification.
| Year | Mint Mark | Composition | Mintage | Circulated Value 2026 | MS65 Value 2026 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | P D | 90% Silver | 429M+ | $10 to $14 | $35 to $60 | First year issue |
| 1964 | Proof | 90% Silver | 3.9M | $15 to $25 | $40 to $75 | Includes Accented Hair variety |
| 1965 | No Mint Mark | 40% Silver | 65M+ | $4 to $6 | $20 to $35 | No mint marks used |
| 1966 | No Mint Mark | 40% Silver | 108M+ | $4 to $6 | $18 to $30 | Special Mint Set year |
| 1967 | No Mint Mark | 40% Silver | 295M+ | $4 to $6 | $18 to $28 | SMS issue only |
| 1968 | D | 40% Silver | 246M+ | $4 to $6 | $15 to $25 | Mint mark returns |
| 1969 | D | 40% Silver | 129M+ | $4 to $6 | $18 to $30 | Tough in high grade |
| 1970 | D | 40% Silver | 2.1M | $15 to $25 | $60 to $100 | Key date silver issue |
| 1971 | P D | Clad | 155M+ | $0.50 to $1 | $10 to $20 | First clad year |
| 1981 | P D | Clad | 13M approx | $1 to $3 | $20 to $40 | Lower mintage |
| 1987 | P D | Clad | 2.8M approx | $2 to $4 | $25 to $45 | Not released for circulation |
| 1998 | S Silver Proof | 90% Silver | 62K approx | $15 to $25 | $30 to $50 | Matte finish version rare |
| 2014 | W Silver | 90% Silver | Limited | $20 to $30 | $40 to $70 | 50th anniversary release |
This table gives a clearer view of how value changes based on year, composition, and condition. Notice how mintage plays a major role in pricing.
Key Dates That Drive Collector Demand
Some Kennedy Half Dollars are more desirable due to low production or unique release circumstances.
1970 D
Only issued in Mint Sets and never released for circulation. With just over 2 million minted, it remains the key date of the silver era.
1964 Accented Hair Proof
A subtle design variation visible in early proof strikes. Collectors actively seek this variety, and premium examples bring strong prices.
1987 P and D
Produced only for Mint Sets. As more collectors build full date and mint mark sets, demand continues to rise.
1998 S Matte Finish Silver
Issued in a special commemorative set, this coin has one of the lowest mintages in the series and remains highly collectible in 2026.
How Condition Impacts Value
Grading is critical in determining the final price of a Kennedy Half Dollar.
Circulated grades
Often trade near melt value for silver issues or face value for clad coins
About Uncirculated
Slight premium due to minimal wear
Mint State MS60 to MS65
Strong collector demand, especially for early silver issues
MS67 and above
Condition rarity becomes a major price driver
In 2026, registry set competition has pushed high grade certified coins significantly higher. Even common dates can sell for surprising amounts in MS67 or better.
Silver Price Influence in 2026
Silver remains a key factor in the Kennedy Half Dollar market. Since 1964 to 1970 coins contain silver, their intrinsic value rises and falls with the metal market.
In 2026, strong industrial demand and investment buying have supported silver prices. This gives 90 percent and 40 percent Kennedy halves a stable value base. Investors often purchase them in bulk for silver stacking, while collectors seek premium examples.
This dual demand helps maintain liquidity and long term price stability.
Collector Market Trends in 2026
Several trends are shaping the Kennedy Half Dollar market this year.
Growing interest from younger collectors using digital marketplaces
Increased certification submissions for high grade modern issues
Rising attention toward anniversary and limited edition releases
Steady demand for complete date and mint mark sets
The series remains affordable compared to older United States coins, making it attractive for beginners. At the same time, rare varieties and high grade examples provide serious opportunities for advanced collectors.
Investment Outlook for Kennedy Half Dollars
While not every coin will see dramatic gains, certain segments show strong potential.
1964 90 percent silver issues remain highly liquid
1970 D continues to be a key date with limited supply
Low mintage special issues such as 1998 S Matte Silver remain strong
High grade certified coins with low population reports are steadily increasing
The historical connection to President Kennedy ensures lasting interest. Combined with precious metal backing for early issues, this makes the series relatively secure compared to purely modern clad coinage.
Buying Tips for 2026
If you are purchasing Kennedy Half Dollars this year:
Check current silver spot price before buying silver issues
Prioritize eye appeal and luster
Avoid cleaned or damaged coins
Consider certified examples for higher value dates
Research population data for high grade investments
Smart buying decisions can make a significant difference over time.
Selling Tips in Today’s Market
When selling:
Group coins by year and condition
Monitor silver price spikes
Consider auction platforms for rare or high grade pieces
Provide clear images and accurate descriptions
Proper timing and presentation can maximize your returns.
Final Thoughts
The Kennedy Half Dollar remains one of the most historically meaningful and accessible coin series in the United States. From the 1964 silver memorial issue to modern anniversary releases, the series offers something for every level of collector.
The 2026 value chart shows stable silver backed prices, rising premiums for key dates, and increasing demand for high grade certified coins. Whether you are stacking silver or building a complete collection, the Kennedy Half Dollar continues to prove that it is far more than just fifty cents.