United States Kennedy Half Dollar, 90% Silver (1964)
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco). The US Mint was established in 1792 and is renowned for the reliability and precision of its coinage.
Pattern: Kennedy Half Dollar, Gilory Roberts (Obverse) and Frank Gasparro (Reverse) Design, introduced 1964.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco). The US Mint was established in 1792 and is renowned for the reliability and precision of its coinage.
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper. Total weight 12.50 grams, with approximately 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver content.
Dimensions
Diameter: 30.61 mm (1.205 inches); Thickness: 2.15 mm; Weight: 12.50 grams.
Description
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is a monumental piece of American numismatic history. Featuring Frank Gasparro's powerful rendition of the Heraldic Eagle on the reverse, the coin strikes a balance between traditional American heraldry and the sleek, optimistic design language of the 1960s. It is highly sought after by silver stackers and historical collectors alike.
Key Features
90% silver composition (distinct from 1965-70 clad and post-1971 base metal versions); Heraldic Eagle reverse; 50-star encircling pattern.
Material & Composition
90% Silver, 10% Copper. Total weight 12.50 grams, with approximately 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with a luster finish. Decorative elements include the Heraldic Eagle based on the Presidential Seal, surrounded by 50 stars and rays. Style is Mid-Century Modern numismatic design.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'HALF DOLLAR', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'. Small 'FG' initials for Frank Gasparro are visible near the eagle's tail. Mint marks (D for Denver) would be located on the reverse below the eagle's left (viewer's right) claw for this specific year.
Construction Details
Die-struck/milled coinage produced via high-pressure stamping machines on prepared silver planchets (blanks). Reeded edge for security against clipping.
Functional Features
Reeded edge to prevent metal shaving/counterfeiting; raised rim to protect the design from wear; legal tender face value.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage). Natural tactile grip provided by the reeded edge.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial die-striking. Deeply recessed fields and sharp relief on the eagle's shield and olive branch indicate a well-maintained die during production.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font thickness for 'HALF DOLLAR'; specific feather detail on the eagle; appropriate silver 'ring' when tapped; 'FG' initials present; weight and diameter are consistent with US Mint specifications.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; likely Philadelphia (no mark) or Denver ('D' mark) Mint.
Era & Period
Cold War / Mid-Century Modern era. Designed as a memorial to President John F. Kennedy shortly after his assassination.
Age Estimate
Dated 1964. This was the only year the Kennedy Half Dollar was minted in 90% silver for general circulation.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of national mourning and a tribute to the 35th President. It represents the end of the bimetallic silver standard in American currency.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Extremely Fine. Visible surface scratches (bag marks), slight tarnish/toning in the recessed areas of the wings, and minor rim dings are present. No major structural damage. Grade: Circulated Very Good (VG-8 to XF-40 range).
Value Estimate
$10.00 - $15.00 USD, largely driven by the current spot price of silver plus a small numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
For numismatic value, do NOT polish. Store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent toning. If cleaning is necessary for 'junk silver' purposes, use mild soapy water and pat dry with a microfiber cloth.
Similar Pieces
1965-1970 Kennedy Half Dollars (40% silver); Franklin Half Dollars (90% silver, 1948-1963); Walking Liberty Half Dollars (90% silver).
Interesting Facts
The public demand for this coin was so high upon release in 1964 that most were hoarded and never saw actual circulation. It was the last 90% silver coin intended for general use in the US.