You might think a Kennedy half dollar is just 50 cents—but one ultra-rare prototype could be worth a staggering $19.9 million. While the 1964 silver half dollar is familiar to collectors, a unique struck-through error has become one of the most valuable coins in history. In this guide, we’ll show you how to spot, authenticate, and potentially sell this hidden treasure.
The Fascinating Story Behind the $19.9 Million Coin
Introduced in 1964 shortly after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, the Kennedy half dollar was minted in 90% silver as a tribute to the late president. While most coins circulated widely, a few experimental errors, including the struck-through prototype, escaped the Philadelphia Mint.
- Only one or two specimens are believed to exist
- Features a metallic sheen and unusual impressions on JFK’s profile, lettering, or eagle wings
- A similar coin fetched $19.9 million at auction in 2025
This coin is more than currency—it’s a historical artifact, merging JFK’s legacy with a rare minting anomaly.
How to Spot a Rare Kennedy Half Dollar
Even ordinary coins can hide extraordinary value. Look for these key indicators:
Date and Mint Mark
- Focus on 1964 coins from the Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark)
- Later dates are valuable but won’t reach multimillion-dollar levels
Weight and Feel
- Standard silver weighs 12.5 grams
- Prototype errors may feel slightly lighter or heavier and produce a muted ring
Surface and Edge
- Check for faint “ghost” impressions or doubled edges on JFK’s hair or the eagle’s wings
- Reeded edges may show irregular alloy patterns
Condition
- Pristine, uncirculated coins (MS68+) command the highest prices
- Even lightly circulated coins with verified errors can sell for six figures
Current 2025 Value Range
| Coin Type | Estimated Value (2025) |
|---|---|
| Circulated 1964 Silver | $10 – $25 |
| Uncirculated MS65 | $50 – $200 |
| Key Date 1970-D | $500 – $2,000 |
| Major Errors (doubled die, off-center) | $5,000 – $50,000 |
| Prototype Struck-Through | $1 million – $19.9 million+ |
Where Rare Kennedy Half Dollars Might Still Be Found
Although most 1964 half dollars are stored by collectors, some can still surface:
- Old coin rolls from banks or casinos
- Estate sales and attics, untouched for decades
- Loose change from laundromats, vending machines, or registers
- Online marketplaces and flea markets, carefully inspected
Persistence pays—your next find could rewrite numismatic history.
How to Authenticate and Sell
If you think you’ve discovered a rare coin:
- Do not clean it; store in soft holders
- Authenticate through PCGS or NGC for grading and verification
- Auction strategically—heritage or private sales reach serious collectors
- Avoid fakes—look out for plated coins or altered dates
FAQs About the Kennedy Half Dollar
Q1: Is the $19.9 million coin real?
Yes, it sold at a 2025 private auction as a prototype struck-through error.
Q2: Which Kennedy half dollars are most valuable?
1964 Philadelphia struck-through prototypes are the rarest and most prized.
Q3: Can I find one in circulation?
Extremely rare, but estate finds, old coin rolls, and forgotten change are possible sources.
Q4: How do I authenticate a coin?
Submit it to PCGS or NGC for grading, alloy verification, and certification.
Q5: Do other Kennedy half dollars hold value?
Yes—uncirculated coins, key dates, and minor error coins can range from $50 to several thousand dollars.
Conclusion
The Kennedy half dollar valued at $19.9 million is more than currency—it’s a piece of history and a potential treasure. From its silver origins to rare minting errors, this coin shows why collectors pay millions for perfection. Check your old coins carefully—the next multimillion-dollar discovery could be jiggling in your pocket.