1776-1976 D Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint, Denver facility ('D' mint mark); Chief Engravers Gilroy Roberts (obverse) and Seth G. Huntington (reverse).
Pattern: Kennedy Half Dollar, Bicentennial Commemorative series, produced in 1975 and 1976.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint, Denver facility ('D' mint mark); Chief Engravers Gilroy Roberts (obverse) and Seth G. Huntington (reverse).
Material
Copper-Nickel Clad (Outer layers of 75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper core). Please note: This is not silver; only 'S' mint mark Bicentennial halves from San Francisco were struck in 40% silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 30.61 mm; Thickness: 2.15 mm; Standard weight: 11.34 grams.
Description
A classic specimen of American commemorative currency, this dual-dated half dollar celebrates the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It features the standard Kennedy obverse with the special Bicentennial reverse depicting Independence Hall in Philadelphia.
Key Features
Dual date '1776-1976'; 'D' mint mark; Independence Hall reverse which replaced the standard Presidential Seal for this two-year production window.
Material & Composition
Copper-Nickel Clad (Outer layers of 75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper core). Please note: This is not silver; only 'S' mint mark Bicentennial halves from San Francisco were struck in 40% silver.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish with relief portrait; Features a profile of John F. Kennedy on the obverse and Independence Hall on the reverse. Style is Modern Commemorative Numismatics.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'D' (Denver) located above the date; dual dated '1776-1976'; 'GR' designer initials on neck truncation; 'SGH' on the reverse.
Construction Details
Machine-struck via high-pressure coinage dies; Reeded edge (150 reeds) with visible copper-colored sandwich center layer characteristic of clad coinage.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency in the United States; value of 50 cents ($0.50).
Handle & Grip Details
Reeded (milled) edge for tactile grip and to prevent debasement/clipping of the metal.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial mass-production; die-struck with evidence of heavy use; typical strike quality for Denver circulation coins of the mid-70s.
Authentication Indicators
Die-consistent lettering; correct font for 'D' mint mark; visible clad layering on edge; authentic weight of approximately 11.3g.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Denver Mint, Colorado.
Era & Period
Bicentennial Era (1975-1976); Modern United States Numismatic period.
Age Estimate
Struck between 1975 and 1976.
Cultural Significance
Represents the peak of American patriotic celebration in the mid-1970s; transformed the standard half dollar into a commemorative token of the nation's independence.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition (Grade: VG to Fine); exhibits numerous surface contact marks (bag marks), a large scratch on Kennedy's cheek, and visible tarnish/toning. Edge shows significant wear. Material reveals the copper core on the rim.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.50) to small premium in high uncirculated grades ($1.00-$2.00). In this circulated condition, it is worth exactly $0.50.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with silver creams as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further scratches or environmental toning.
Similar Pieces
1964 Kennedy Half (90% Silver), 1965-1970 Kennedy Half (40% Silver), and 1776-1976 S Silver Clad Bicentennial Half (40% Silver).
Interesting Facts
The Bicentennial half dollars were so popular as souvenirs that they were heavily hoarded by the public, ensuring that most specimens found today remain in relatively low-value circulated condition despite their age.