1776-1976 D Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint, Denver branch
Pattern: Kennedy Half Dollar (Bicentennial Commemorative)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint, Denver branch
Material
Copper-Nickel Clad (75% Copper, 25% Nickel outer layer over a 100% Copper core). Note: This is an circulation-strike 'D' mint mark, not the 40% silver version.
Dimensions
Diameter: 30.6 mm; Weight: 11.34 grams; Thickness: 2.15 mm.
Description
A commemorative half dollar featuring the profile of the 35th President, John F. Kennedy. Unlike standard years, this features the dual date 1776-1976 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of American independence. The Denver mint mark is clearly visible above the year.
Key Features
Dual date '1776-1976'; 'D' mint mark; reverse design of Independence Hall; reeded edge.
Material & Composition
Copper-Nickel Clad (75% Copper, 25% Nickel outer layer over a 100% Copper core). Note: This is an circulation-strike 'D' mint mark, not the 40% silver version.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish with relief portrait of John F. Kennedy; reverse features Independence Hall. Mottoes 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and dual dating '1776-1976'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'D' (Denver) located above the date; Designer initials 'GR' (Gilroy Roberts) on obverse and 'SGF' (Seth G. Huntington) on reverse.
Construction Details
Machine-struck using high-pressure coinage presses; clad composition consisting of three layers bonded together.
Functional Features
Reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting and to prevent clipping; legal tender denomination of 50 cents.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Numismatic item)
Craftsmanship Details
High-volume industrial die-striking. Significant detail in the hair texture and the architectural lines of Independence Hall on the reverse.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font for Denver mint mark; proper strike depth for high points of hair; copper core visible on the edge (diagnostic for clad strikes).
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Denver Mint, Colorado.
Era & Period
Modern Era / US Bicentennial (1975-1976 production)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1975 or 1976 (All Bicentennial coins were minted across these two years).
Cultural Significance
A major symbol of American patriotism during the 1976 Bicentennial celebrations; widely hoarded by the public as a memento.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Good. Visible surface bag marks, light scratches on the cheek and field, and minor rim dings. Tarnish appears consistent with nickel-copper oxidation (brownish/reddish spots).
Value Estimate
$0.50 to $2.00. In this circulated condition, it is generally worth face value or a small premium to collectors; uncirculated specimens or silver versions carry higher value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in an acid-free protective flip or tube to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1776-1976 S Silver Clad Half Dollar (contains 40% silver, usually found in mint sets); 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% silver).
Interesting Facts
Wait times for these coins were so long in 1975 that the Mint eliminated the 1975 date entirely for halves, quarters, and dollars to ensure enough Bicentennial stock was available.