Although seldom seen in commerce today, Kennedy halves remain a collector favorite. Here you'll find a wide selection of carefully graded clad and silver Kennedy half dollars, including single coins, sets, Proofs and more. All backed by our 45-day Money Back Guarantee of Satisfaction!

The Enduring Appeal of Kennedy Coins

Now in its sixth decade, this coin series is one of the most popular among collectors. President Kennedy's famous call to action during his inaugural address in 1961 still resonates: "Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country." The first U.S. president born in the 20th century, and the youngest ever elected, JFK was also a decorated WWII hero who sought to ease Cold War tensions. Many collectors recall how the president proposed federal programs for the elderly and the poor, and launched a drive for a civil-rights bill to end racial segregation.

The JFK Coin Design

U.S. Mint chief engraver Gilroy Roberts based the coin’s obverse on a portrait prepared for Kennedy’s presidential medal, with additional recommendations from Kennedy’s widow, Jacqueline Kennedy, and brother, Robert F. Kennedy. His initials "GR" can be found in the shaded truncation of JFK's bust. Frank Gasparro, who succeeded Roberts, designed the reverse featuring the presidential coat of arms. His initials "FG" can be found between the eagle's left leg and tail feathers. Coins dated 1964-1967 bear the mint mark on the reverse, below the olive branch. However, in 1968 it was moved to the obverse, between the portrait and the date.

Easy and Affordable to Collect

Collecting Kennedy half dollars provides opportunities for coin collectors of all levels. Whether you are just starting out or lured by the thrill of hunting error coins and varieties, you can keep track of your growing Kennedy coin collection with this handy checklist.

Composition, Mints and Circulation

When introduced in 1964, silver Kennedy half dollars were stuck in 90% silver. In 1965, the silver content of the coin was reduced to 40% due to rising precious metal prices. Then in 1971, silver was eliminated altogether except in special collector coins, Proofs and a few 1971-D and 1977-D pieces struck in silver-clad composition by mistake.

Kennedy Half Dollars have been struck at four mints: Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco and West Point. Some dates were issued only in Mint, Souvenir or Commemorative sets. None were struck for circulation in 1987. And since 2002, release for circulation has been limited, with many dates issued only in Mint Sets, 20-coin rolls and 200-coin bags.

Special Issues

The U.S. Mint has struck several special Kennedy half dollars, including a dual-dated release for the nation's 1976 Bicentennial. It also struck a gold Kennedy half dollar at West Point for the 50th anniversary of the Kennedy coin in 2014, which you can read about in our Heads & Tails blog. Additionally, Kennedy Half Dollars included in 2005-2010 Uncirculated Mint Sets featured a special satin finish.

Learn more about building a Kennedy half dollar collection in our Coin Collecting Learn Center.