United States Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar (40% Silver Uncirculated)
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (San Francisco or Denver Facility). The San Francisco Mint produced the silver versions, while Denver and Philadelphia produced copper-nickel clad for circulation.
Pattern: Bicentennial Coinage (Reverse: Independence Hall by Seth G. Huntington)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (San Francisco or Denver Facility). The San Francisco Mint produced the silver versions, while Denver and Philadelphia produced copper-nickel clad for circulation.
Material
40% Silver Clad (Outer layers: 80% silver, 20% copper; Inner core: 21% silver, 79% copper). Total silver weight is approximately 0.1479 troy ounces.
Dimensions
Diameter: 30.6 mm; Weight: 11.5 grams. This is the standard size for a U.S. Half Dollar.
Description
A celebratory commemorative coin issued by the U.S. Mint to honor the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The reverse depicts a detailed architectural rendering of Independence Hall in Philadelphia. Unlike standard Kennedy halves, this design was only produced for the 1975-1976 period.
Key Features
Dual date on obverse (1776-1976) and the specific Independence Hall reverse design by Seth G. Huntington.
Material & Composition
40% Silver Clad (Outer layers: 80% silver, 20% copper; Inner core: 21% silver, 79% copper). Total silver weight is approximately 0.1479 troy ounces.
Finish & Decoration
Satin uncirculated finish. Features Independence Hall on the reverse with '200 YEARS OF FREEDOM' text. Designed in a realist mid-century commemorative style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark is located on the obverse (not visible in image). 'S' denotes silver proof or uncirculated. 'JGH' designer initials visible below E PLURIBUS UNUM.
Construction Details
Die-struck/milled. The coin is composed of three layers bonded together (clad) and struck between two high-pressure dies.
Functional Features
Reeded edge to prevent clipping; legal tender denomination of 50 cents.
Handle & Grip Details
None (standard numismatic item).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck with high-precision steel dies. The relief is balanced to allow for mass production while retaining architectural detail.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive architectural detail of Independence Hall; 'JGH' initials; reeded edge profile. Specific weight at 11.5g confirms 40% silver vs 11.3g for clad.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; San Francisco Mint (assuming silver composition) or Denver for non-silver variants.
Era & Period
U.S. Bicentennial Era (commemorating 1776-1976). Design context: American Patriotism and Numismatic Modernism.
Age Estimate
Struck between 1975 and 1976. All Bicentennial halves bear the dual date 1776-1976 on the obverse.
Cultural Significance
Represents the massive national celebration of the 1976 Bicentennial, which saw a surge in coin collecting among the American public.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Shows some surface bag marks and light circulation wear near the letters. Light tarnish is forming on the right field.
Value Estimate
Between $4.00 and $10.00 depending on silver spot price and specific mint state; circulated clad versions are worth face value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it ruins numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1976 Bicentennial Clad Half Dollar (Copper core visible on edge); 1970-D 40% Silver Half Dollar; 1964 90% Silver Kennedy Half Dollar.
Interesting Facts
Seth G. Huntington won a national design contest to have his artwork placed on the reverse of the Bicentennial half dollar.