United States Kennedy Half Dollar (40% Silver Clad)
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint
Pattern: Kennedy Half Dollar (Reverse: Presidential Seal)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint
Material
40% Silver Clad (Outer layers of 80% silver/20% copper bonded to a core of 20.9% silver/79.1% copper; total net .1479 troy oz silver)
Dimensions
Diameter: 30.61 mm (1.205 in); Mass: 11.50 grams; Thickness: 2.15 mm.
Description
The Kennedy Half Dollar was created as a memorial to the late President John F. Kennedy. The reverse, shown here, depicts the Great Seal of the United States. Between 1965 and 1970, these coins were struck in a reduced silver alloy (40%) compared to the 90% silver 1964 issue.
Key Features
Prominent Presidential Seal heraldic eagle; 'HALF DOLLAR' denomination; silver-white color without the visible copper sandwich line seen on later base-metal coins.
Material & Composition
40% Silver Clad (Outer layers of 80% silver/20% copper bonded to a core of 20.9% silver/79.1% copper; total net .1479 troy oz silver)
Finish & Decoration
Circulated luster with reed edge; reverse features the Presidential Seal (heraldic eagle) with a shield, olive branch, and arrows surrounded by 50 stars.
Hallmarks & Stamps
United States Mint marks (if present, found on the obverse); Reverse stamp 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'HALF DOLLAR'.
Construction Details
Machine-struck on a multi-layer clad planchet; die-struck at high pressure.
Functional Features
Reeded edge to prevent clipping; legal tender denomination for circulation.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handheld numismatic object.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial coinage; features the sculpture of Frank Gasparro (reverse) and Gilroy Roberts (obverse).
Authentication Indicators
Correct strike pressure; classic 'silver ring' tone when dropped; lack of distinct copper core line on the edge; correct weight of approximately 11.5g.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco Mint).
Era & Period
Space Age / Cold War era United States (1965-1970 composition).
Age Estimate
Circa 1965-1970 (based on the lack of a copper edge typical of 1971-present nickel-clad issues).
Cultural Significance
A symbol of American mourning and legacy in the 1960s; marks the transition of the U.S. monetary system away from precious metals.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine; visible circulation wear on high points of feathers; minor green oxidation or PVC damage visible at the top edge; localized scratching.
Value Estimate
Typically $4.00 - $10.00 USD, largely driven by the current spot price of silver.
Care & Maintenance
Collectors advise against cleaning; store in a PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1964 Kennedy Half (90% Silver); 1971-Present Kennedy Half (Copper-Nickel Clad, no silver content).
Interesting Facts
The design was rushed into production just weeks after JFK's assassination. Public demand was so high that they were rarely used in circulation, leading to their eventual removal from common daily use.