1776-1976 United States Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint, an agency of the Department of the Treasury. The U.S. Mint is renowned for high-quality currency production since 1792.
Pattern: Kennedy Bicentennial Half Dollar; Reverse features Independence Hall by Seth G. Huntington; Obverse features John F. Kennedy by Gilroy Roberts.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint, an agency of the Department of the Treasury. The U.S. Mint is renowned for high-quality currency production since 1792.
Material
Likely copper-nickel clad (75% copper, 25% nickel outerwear bonded to a core of pure copper). If minted in San Francisco (S-mark), it could be 40% silver (silver-clad), but most circulation issues are base metal.
Dimensions
Diameter: 30.61 mm (1.205 in); Thickness: 2.15 mm; Weight: 11.34 grams for clad version (silver-clad weighs 11.50 grams).
Description
A United States Bicentennial Half Dollar featuring the iconic commemorative reverse of Independence Hall. This piece represents a significant moment in American numismatic history when the Treasury changed circulating designs to honor the nation's 200th birthday.
Key Features
Dual date on obverse (1776-1976), Independence Hall reverse design, and the absence of a '1975' date for this series.
Material & Composition
Likely copper-nickel clad (75% copper, 25% nickel outerwear bonded to a core of pure copper). If minted in San Francisco (S-mark), it could be 40% silver (silver-clad), but most circulation issues are base metal.
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike with a satin/matte surface from wear. Features a reverse design of Independence Hall in Philadelphia surrounded by 13 stars, with '200 YEARS OF FREEDOM' and 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'HALF DOLLAR' on the reverse. Mint marks (D for Denver, S for San Francisco, or no mark for Philadelphia) are found on the obverse above the date (not visible here).
Construction Details
Die-struck; machine-made using high-pressure coin presses at a government minting facility.
Functional Features
Reeded edge (milled) to prevent debasement; legal tender currency for the value of 50 cents.
Handle & Grip Details
None (standard numismatic item).
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial die-striking with high-relief details on the architectural elements of Independence Hall, though much detail is lost here due to circulation wear.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles, die-alignment, and the distinctive Seth Huntington reverse design. Natural wear patterns suggest it is an authentic circulation coin.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco Mint locations.
Era & Period
Bicentennial Era (1975-1976); minted in celebration of the 200th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.
Age Estimate
Produced between 1975 and 1976. Unlike other years, there are no 1975-dated Kennedy halves; all were dual-dated 1776-1976.
Cultural Significance
Represents the patriotic fervor of the 1970s and is one of the most widely hoarded 'special' coins by the American public due to its unique dual-dating.
Condition Notes
About Good to Very Good (AG-VG) circulation wear. Significant surface tarnish (toning), scratches, and loss of detail on the building's masonry. Visible circular wear consistent with pocket change.
Value Estimate
$0.50 (Face Value) for circulated clad versions; $4.00 - $10.00 if it is the 40% silver variety; higher for uncirculated or proof specimens.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives, as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% silver), 1965-1970 Kennedy Half Dollar (40% silver), and current 2024 Kennedy Half Dollars (clad).
Interesting Facts
The reverse design was chosen through a national competition. Seth G. Huntington won $5,000 for his depiction of Independence Hall used on this coin.