The Value and History of the 1967 Kennedy Half Dollar

Wondering about the worth of your 1967 Kennedy half dollar? Well, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the value of the 1967 half dollar, its history, and the interesting features that make it a collector’s item. We’ll also dive into the world of error coins and discover their worth. Let’s get started!

1967 Silver Half Dollar Value Chart

Mintmark and Variety

In the chart above, you can see the values of the 1967 half dollar based on its condition. The higher the grade, the more valuable the coin becomes. For instance, an extremely fine 1967 half dollar is worth around $5, while a gem quality MS65 coin can fetch about $28. However, things become more interesting at the highest grades. If you find an MS67 example, its value skyrockets to an impressive $1,650.

History of the 1967 Half Dollar

The half dollar denomination has been around since the late 1700s. In 1967, the Kennedy half dollar was introduced, named after President John F. Kennedy, whose profile graces its obverse side. Unlike previous coins honoring past presidents, the Kennedy half dollar was created as a memorial shortly after Kennedy’s assassination in 1963. The decision to use the half dollar denomination was made by Jacqueline Kennedy, who didn’t want to replace George Washington on the quarter and dollar coins.

The first Kennedy half dollars were made of 90% silver and 10% copper. However, due to the rising price of silver and the hoarding of these coins, the silver content was reduced to 40% in 1967. This continued until 1970 when silver was eliminated altogether from the half dollar. Despite the changes, half dollars remained unpopular for everyday use and are now mostly collected by numismatists.

Features of the 1967 Half Dollar

The Obverse of the 1967 Half Dollar

The obverse side of the 1967 half dollar features a left-facing profile of John F. Kennedy. The design is based on a portrait by Mint engraver Gilroy Roberts, who had met Kennedy personally to finalize the design. Kennedy’s portrait takes center stage on the coin, with his hair slightly obscuring parts of the word “LIBERTY.” The motto “In God We Trust” is positioned towards the bottom, flanking Kennedy’s neck. The date curves along the lower edge of the coin.

The Reverse of the 1967 Half Dollar

On the reverse side of the 1967 half dollar, you’ll find the Presidential Seal, a heraldic eagle, and shield. The seal is surrounded by stars representing the states, with the Latin motto “E pluribus unum” above the eagle’s head. The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” curve along the top edge, and “ONE DOLLAR” curves along the bottom.

Other Features of the 1967 Half Dollar

The 1967 half dollar was minted in Philadelphia and does not bear a mint mark. It has a diameter of 30.61 millimeters and weighs 11.5 grams. The edge of the coin is decorated with 150 reeds, which are vertical grooves. These coins are made of 40% silver, lighter than the 90% silver Kennedy half dollars minted earlier.

1967 Half Dollar Value Guides

All 1967 half dollar coins have intrinsic value due to their silver content, even if they’re in circulated condition. The value of these coins depends on their grade, which ranges from 1 to 70. An XF45 graded 1967 half dollar is worth around $5. Mint state coins, which have never been circulated, are graded from 60 to 70. An MS60 coin is valued at about $7, while an MS65 is worth around $28. The value increases significantly at higher grades, with an MS67 example priced at $1,650.

In addition to regular business strike coins, there were also Special Mint Sets (SMS) available in 1967. These coins were targeted at collectors and have a higher chance of being in excellent condition. The value of SMS coins is generally lower than that of business strike coins at equivalent grades. For example, an XF45 SMS half dollar is worth about $3, while an SP60 is valued at $5. SMS coins with cameo or deep cameo designations have a premium value, with deep cameo examples reaching much higher prices.

1967 Half Dollar Error Coins

The 1967 half dollar also has some interesting error coins that are sought after by collectors. Double die errors occur when there’s a problem with the die used to strike the coins, resulting in a double image. Two varieties of double die errors, FS-102 and FS-103, can be found on the obverse side of the 1967 half dollar. These errors are visible on the letters of “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The values of these error coins range from $90 to $2,115, depending on their grade.

There’s also a double die error, FS-801, on the reverse side of the 1967 half dollar. Look for doubling on the stars that surround the eagle. The value of these coins has decreased as more examples have been found, with a graded MS65 coin currently valued at $325.

Even the SMS coins had their own errors. One such error is the quintuple die obverse, coded FS-101. The exact nature of the doubling on these coins is still debated, but you can find multiple images on the right side of the coin. A deep cameo graded SP67 example of this error coin sold at auction for $2,585.

FAQs

Is a 1967 half dollar rare?

No, the 1967 half dollar is not considered rare. With nearly 300 million of these coins minted, they are relatively easy to find. However, coins in gem quality grades are rarer and more valuable. There are also some captivating error coins that add to the interest surrounding the 1967 half dollar.

Where is the mint mark on a 1967 half dollar?

You won’t find a mint mark on a 1967 half dollar because all of these coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The Philadelphia Mint did not start using mint marks until 1979.

In conclusion, the 1967 Kennedy half dollar has value beyond its face value. Whether you’re interested in its history, collecting for investment, or searching for rare error coins, the 1967 half dollar offers a journey into the fascinating world of numismatics.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The values mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on various factors such as condition, rarity, and market fluctuations.