1776-1976 Kennedy Bicentennial Half Dollar (Circulated)
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco). Authorized by the US Government to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence.
Pattern: Kennedy Half Dollar, Bicentennial Issue (1776-1976 dual-dated). Reverse features Independence Hall.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco). Authorized by the US Government to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence.
Material
Typically 75% Copper / 25% Nickel clad to a pure copper core. Note: A 40% silver version (.1479 oz silver) was minted in San Francisco for collectors, but the lack of an 'S' mint mark generally indicates the base-metal clad version.
Dimensions
Diameter: 30.61 mm (1.205 in); Weight: 11.34 grams (for clad) or 11.50 grams (for 40% silver).
Description
A iconic numismatic piece commemorating the United States Bicentennial. The obverse retains the classic JFK profile but introduces the historical 1776-1976 dual date. The reverse is unique to this issue, replacing the Presidential Seal with Independence Hall in Philadelphia. This item represents a high-water mark for American commemorative circulation coinage.
Key Features
Dual-dated (1776-1976), Independence Hall reverse, Gilroy Roberts portrait, and high relief design for a circulation coin.
Material & Composition
Typically 75% Copper / 25% Nickel clad to a pure copper core. Note: A 40% silver version (.1479 oz silver) was minted in San Francisco for collectors, but the lack of an 'S' mint mark generally indicates the base-metal clad version.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish. Obverse features the profile of John F. Kennedy by Gilroy Roberts. Decorative elements include the dual date '1776-1976' and the 'LIBERTY' / 'IN GOD WE TRUST' inscriptions. Neoclassical numismatic style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No mint mark visible (standard for Philadelphia) or located between the date and the bust. Designer initials 'GR' (Gilroy Roberts) on the obverse and 'SGF' (Seth G. Huntington) on the reverse.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck and upset rim. Produced using high-speed coining presses. Clad layers are bonded to a copper core prior to striking.
Functional Features
Reeded edge to prevent clipping/shaving of metal; legal tender currency of the United States with a face value of 50 cents.
Handle & Grip Details
None (Reeded edge for tactile identification).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck; industrial precision. High-quality die engraving by Seth G. Huntington, winner of a national design competition for the reverse.
Authentication Indicators
Die-struck details consistent with US Mint standards; correct font for 'LIBERTY'; reeded edge present. The wear pattern is consistent with decades of occasional circulation.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; likely Philadelphia Mint (due to lack of 'P' or other mint marks typical of the period) or Denver Mint.
Era & Period
Modern Era / Cold War (Bicentennial Celebration period, 1975-1976).
Age Estimate
Struck between 1975 and 1976. This specific design was produced for two years to ensure enough supply for the national celebration.
Cultural Significance
Represents the patriotic fervor of the 1970s and serves as a primary symbol of the US Bicentennial celebration. It was one of three coins (quarter, half-dollar, dollar) to receive a commemorative reverse for the event.
Condition Notes
Circulated (Fine to Very Fine). Visible surface scratches, minor dings on the rim, and significant oxidation/dark spotting (tarnish) on the obverse face. No major structural damage, but heavy handling wear.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.50) to approximately $2.00 in circulated condition. Uncirculated (MS-65+) or 40% silver proof versions command higher premiums ($5-$20+).
Care & Maintenance
Collectors are advised NOT to polish or clean coins with chemicals, as it removes the 'luster' and reduces numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic flip or archival-safe folder.
Similar Pieces
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% silver), 1965-1970 Kennedy Half Dollar (40% silver), Bicentennial Quarter, and Bicentennial Eisenhower Dollar.
Interesting Facts
Over 500 million Bicentennial half dollars were struck because the US government feared hoarding by the public. This remains one of the most saved US coins in history.