The 1967 Kennedy half dollar is a coin that sparks fascination among collectors. Its blend of historical significance, silver content, and rare minting errors makes it a valuable piece for both casual enthusiasts and serious numismatists. This article looks into the worth of the 1967 Kennedy half dollar and the rare errors that can turn this coin into a prized collectible.
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1967 Kennedy Half Dollar
Introduced in 1964 to honor the legacy of President John F. Kennedy after his assassination, the Kennedy half dollar quickly became iconic. By 1967, these coins were struck with a 40% silver composition during a transitional period in U.S. currency history.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Composition | 40% silver, 60% copper |
| Weight | 11.5 grams |
| Mint Marks | None (all struck without) |
The 1967 Kennedy half dollar stands out for its silver content and collectible appeal, particularly in pristine condition or with unique minting errors.
Value of the 1967 Half Dollar
The coin’s value depends primarily on its condition and silver content.
Silver Melt Value
Each 1967 half dollar contains approximately 0.1479 troy ounces of silver. Its melt value is tied to the current price of silver, typically ranging between $4 and $6.
Collector Value
- Circulated Condition: $4 to $6 (reflecting silver content).
- Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-63): $8 to $12.
- High Grade (MS-65 or higher): $40 to $100+ depending on collector demand.
1967 Kennedy Half Dollar
Minting errors add significant value and intrigue to the 1967 Kennedy half dollar. Here are the most sought-after errors:
Double Die Obverse (DDO)
A double die obverse occurs when the obverse design is struck twice, causing visible doubling. Look for doubled inscriptions, such as “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Value: $50 to $500, depending on clarity and grade.
Die Clashes
Die clashes happen when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet in place, transferring design elements onto the opposing side.
- Value: $20 to $200, depending on the clash’s visibility.
Off-Center Strikes
Off-center strikes result from misalignment during minting, leaving part of the design off the coin’s edge. These errors are visually striking and highly unique.
- Value: $50 to $300, depending on misalignment severity.
Missing Clad Layer
In rare cases, the outer clad layer of the coin is absent, exposing the copper core. These coins are lighter and visually distinct.
- Value: $100 to $400, depending on the extent of the missing layer.
How to Identify Rare 1967 Errors
- Inspect Carefully: Use a magnifying glass to examine the coin for doubling, clashes, or alignment issues.
- Check the Weight: A missing clad layer often results in a lighter coin.
- Preserve the Coin: Store error coins in protective holders to prevent damage.
The 1967 Kennedy half dollar is more than just a piece of currency—it’s a slice of numismatic history. Its inherent value due to silver content, combined with the potential for rare errors, makes it a captivating coin for collectors. Whether you’re holding onto it for its silver value or hunting for a rare gem, this coin offers plenty of excitement.
Check your collection—you might just have a valuable treasure waiting to be discovered.
FAQs
What is the silver content of the 1967 Kennedy half dollar?
It contains 40% silver, amounting to 0.1479 troy ounces.
What is a Double Die Obverse error?
It’s a minting error where the obverse design is struck twice, causing doubling.
How much is an uncirculated 1967 half dollar worth?
Uncirculated coins typically sell for $8 to $12.
What causes a missing clad layer?
It happens when the outer layer is not applied, exposing the copper core.
Are all 1967 Kennedy half dollars minted without marks?
Yes, none of the 1967 half dollars carry a mint mark.
