A simple Kennedy Half Dollar could make you rich. This coin, made to honor President John F. Kennedy, has some rare versions that sell for big money. One special 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar recently sold for $850,000 at an auction. Experts say a few of these treasures might still be out there, maybe even in the change you got at the store. Here’s why this coin is so valuable and how you can find one.
A Coin with a Special Story
The Kennedy Half Dollar was first made in 1964, right after President Kennedy was assassinated. People loved the coin’s design, showing Kennedy’s face on one side and an eagle on the other. Most are worth only 50 cents, but some from 1964 are super rare because of how they were made. The $850,000 coin was struck in 90% silver and had a unique “accented hair” design, with extra lines in Kennedy’s hair. Only a few exist, making them a collector’s dream.
Why It’s Worth So Much
What makes this coin so special? It’s all about rarity and details. The 1964 “accented hair” version was one of the first designs, but the Kennedy family asked for changes, so only a small batch was made. Coins in great condition, with clear details like the hair lines or eagle feathers, are worth more. Some were accidentally released into circulation, so they could be hiding in your change. Other rare Kennedy Half Dollars, like those with doubled images or errors, can also fetch thousands.
How to Spot the $850,000 Coin
Want to check your coins? Here’s what to look for in a Kennedy Half Dollar:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1964 |
| Mint Mark | None (Philadelphia) |
| Material | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Design | Kennedy portrait (front), eagle (back) |
| Key Trait | Accented hair (extra lines in hair) |
Look at the date on Kennedy’s neck and check for a mint mark below it. Use a magnifying glass to spot the extra hair lines above his ear. If the coin looks silver, not shiny like newer coins, it might be the 1964 type. Don’t clean it—cleaning can ruin its value. Worn coins might still be worth a lot, so don’t toss them aside.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve got a rare Kennedy Half Dollar, handle it carefully. Put it in a plastic holder to protect it and take clear photos. Find a trusted coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC to check if it’s real. They’ll look at the condition and details to confirm its value. If it’s the $850,000 type, you could sell it at an auction house like Stack’s Bowers. Even if it’s not the top prize, other rare Kennedy coins can still be worth hundreds or thousands.
Start Your Coin Hunt Today
The idea of finding an $850,000 coin in your change is exciting. Stories of people finding rare coins in cash drawers or old jars keep the hunt alive. Next time you get a half dollar at the store or check your coin collection, take a close look. That shiny piece of history could be your ticket to a huge payday. Grab a magnifying glass and start searching—you might just find a fortune in your pocket.