10 Most Valuable Half Dollar Coins You Could Find in Your Pocket Change

Have you ever wondered if the half-dollars in your collection could be worth far more than their face value? From historical significance to minting errors and rare features, half-dollar coins have become sought-after treasures for collectors. Let’s look into some of the most valuable half-dollars, ranging from Franklin to Kennedy coins, that might be hiding in plain sight.

Franklin Half-Dollar Series

The Franklin Half-Dollar, first minted in 1948, is a favorite among collectors. Benjamin Franklin’s portrait and the iconic Liberty Bell design make these coins both historic and appealing.

Key Franklin Half-Dollars to Watch:

1. 1948 Franklin Half-Dollar
   • Significance: First in the series.
   • Value: Around $200 in circulated condition; up to $1,500 if uncirculated and showing “full bell lines” (clear detail on the Liberty Bell).
2. 1955 Franklin Half-Dollar
   • Special Feature: Sharply struck specimens with clear detail fetch the highest prices.
   • Value: Between $150 and $1,200 in mint condition.
3. 1950 Franklin Half-Dollar
   • Value Driver: Full bell lines significantly boost its worth.
   • Value: Well-preserved examples are highly sought after and command strong auction prices.

Kennedy Half-Dollars

The Kennedy Half-Dollar series, minted after President Kennedy’s assassination, remains a collector favorite due to its historical significance and silver content.

Notable Kennedy Coins:

1. 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar
   • Material: 90% silver.
   • Value: Circulated examples are worth around $10, but uncirculated coins or those with mint errors can fetch up to $500.
2. 1970-D Kennedy Half-Dollar
   • Historical Importance: Last half-dollar with high silver content.
   • Value: $15 for circulated coins; up to $1,000 for pristine, uncirculated specimens.
3. 1966 Kennedy Half-Dollar
   • Collectible Feature: Contains silver, and well-preserved coins show clear detail in Kennedy’s hair and the eagle design.
   • Value: Higher prices for coins with minimal wear.

Walking Liberty Half-Dollars

The Walking Liberty Half-Dollar series is renowned for its elegant design and collectible value.

1. 1916 Walking Liberty Half-Dollar
   • Design: Considered one of the most beautiful coins in American history.
   • Value: $50 for worn coins; up to $2,500 for mint-condition specimens.
2. 1942 Walking Liberty Half-Dollar
   • Collectible Feature: Sharp details in Liberty’s gown and the eagle’s feathers increase value.
   • Value: Between $30 and $1,200, depending on condition and mint mark.

Barber Half-Dollars

The Barber Half-Dollar, minted from 1892 to 1915, holds a special place in numismatics due to its age and historical significance.

1. 1892 Barber Half-Dollar
   • Rarity: One of the oldest and most collectible half-dollars.
   • Value: $150 for worn specimens; $3,000 or more for well-preserved examples.

Special Commemoratives: The Bicentennial Half-Dollar

The 1976 Bicentennial Half-Dollar, minted to commemorate America’s 200th birthday, features a unique dual-date design (1776–1976).

• Common Versions: Circulated coins are often worth face value.
• Valuable Examples: Uncirculated coins or those with mint errors can fetch significantly higher prices.

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