Kennedy Half Dollar : For most people, a Kennedy half dollar is simply a 50-cent piece — an oversized coin that doesn’t see much use in everyday transactions. But for coin collectors, certain rare varieties can be worth far more than their face value. In one remarkable case, a single Kennedy half dollar sold for more than the price of a 1-ounce gold bar — and it all came down to a combination of rarity, condition, and history.
The Coin in Question
The star of this story was a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Proof, Accented Hair variety. The coin’s design, issued just months after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, featured extra detailing in Kennedy’s hair above the ear — a design element later altered for mass production.
This subtle difference, along with the fact that it was struck in 90% silver and in proof condition, made it a prime target for serious collectors.
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Why It Outshone Gold
At the time of the coin’s auction, a 1-ounce gold bar was worth around $2,000. The Kennedy half dollar? It sold for $4,800 — more than double the gold’s value.
Here’s why:
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Historical Significance – First-year issue following JFK’s death.
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Design Variety – The rare “Accented Hair” proof was produced in small numbers.
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Precious Metal Content – Struck in 90% silver.
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Condition – This particular coin was graded PR69 Deep Cameo by PCGS, near perfection.
A Short-Lived Design
The “Accented Hair” variety was quickly replaced, making it difficult to find in high-grade condition today. Many were mishandled or tarnished over time, which is why pristine proofs command top dollar.
The Collector’s Takeaway
While gold is valued for its metal content, rare coins carry a blend of historical, artistic, and scarcity value that can eclipse even precious metals. In this case, a half dollar — worth just 50 cents at face value — became more valuable than solid gold.
So before you overlook that old coin in your drawer, give it a closer look. You might just be holding a small piece of history worth more than its weight in gold.
FAQ: How One Kennedy Half Dollar Became More Valuable Than a 1-Ounce Gold Bar
1. What is the “Accented Hair” Kennedy half dollar?
It’s a 1964 proof coin with extra detailing in President Kennedy’s hair above the ear. This design was quickly changed, making it rare and collectible.
2. Why is the 1964 Kennedy half dollar special?
It was the first year of issue, struck in 90% silver, and released shortly after JFK’s assassination, giving it both historical and emotional significance.
3. How much is an “Accented Hair” Kennedy half dollar worth?
High-grade proof examples can sell for thousands of dollars, with near-perfect specimens exceeding the price of a 1-ounce gold bar.
4. How can I tell if my coin is the rare variety?
Look for sharper hair detail above Kennedy’s ear and the missing serif on the “I” in LIBERTY. For certainty, have it graded by PCGS or NGC.