You probably have some coins stowed away in pocket change or even an aging coin jar, but really, how many could be worth a small fortune? Half dollars usually aren’t considered in daily transactions; however, some particular rare editions or unique minting can have impressive prices by collectors. A few of them may even be some coins featuring unique production errors, limited issue minting, or maybe even one of those hidden gems waiting for you to discover it right now.
It’s a complete rundown of the 10 most valuable half-dollar coins that might be nestling in your pocket change, along with a few bits of their history, a value range, and the characteristics collectors will be looking for to judge their worth.
- 1948 Franklin Half Dollar
The first half dollar coin which bears the image of Benjamin Franklin is 1948 Franklin Half Dollar coin. This coin is considered to be a milestone in the coinage history of the USA. The design was somewhat altered to include his image after the Liberty Head design had been implemented. Most of these coins are truly minted; however, the derivable value lies in the condition of the coin itself. Coins that have “full bell lines,” which is a sharp detailing on the Liberty Bell on the reverse side, are especially valued. A coin in near-mint condition may fetch between $200 and $1,500.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Approximate Value: $200 – $1,500 (depending on condition)
- Half Dollar Kennedy Year 1964
They released this coin after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy: The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar. This coin is made from 90% silver and has an advantage over other coins: intrinsic value in beauty as well as in collectability. Even though they minted millions of these coins, high-graded or those with mint errors can be worth up to $500.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Multiple locations
- Approximate Value: $10 – $500 (pristine or error versions)
- Franklin Half Dollar of 1955
Franklin Half Dollars are the most sought after by collectors who have an eye for sharply detailed Liberty Bells. As with most coins, the value depends on the sharpness and condition overall. Because of this, a well-cared for 1955 Franklin Half Dollar would sell for about $150 to $1,200.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Approximate Value: $150 – $1,200 (for high-quality coins)
- Kennedy Half Dollar, 1970-D
Much like the examples above, the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar also happens to be among the last half dollars struck before the U.S. ceased minting these coins with high content silver. Production occurs very limitedly at the Denver mint. The coin really has low runs because of its silver content, so perfect uncirculated coins may sell for anywhere between $15-$1,000.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Denver
- Approximate Value: $15 – $1,000
5. 1916 Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The 1916 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is an iconic and one of the most popular and coveted coins of U.S. numismatics. The stunning representation of Lady Liberty strolling toward the sun gives this coin an appetite, as it is seen both as an artistic and historical treasure. Its low mintages and historical context, however, would take this coin’s value from $50 to $2,500, depending on the condition it is in.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Multiple locations
- Approximate Value: $50 – $2,500 (depending on grade)
6. Walking Liberty Half Dollar, 1942
The 1942 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is one of those really great coins that commands a strong price for both its silver content and the beauty of the design. While it is not as rare as the 1916 Walking Liberty, it still has decent value if you have a very high grade coin with well-defined details. Expect coins in fine condition will carry prices of $30-1,200.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Multiple locations
- Approximate Value: $30 – $1,200
7. 1966 Kennedy Half Dollar
The Kennedy series is marked by the uniqueness of the 1966 Kennedy Half Dollar coin. It may not be as famous as the one minted in 1964, but it has some collector value from its partial silver content. Well-preserved examples or coins with good detail are generally very much sought after by collectors. However, it is not worth as much as many other coins on this list, but it can still be worth more than its face value if it happens to be in outstanding condition.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Multiple locations
- Approximate Value: Generally modest, but can increase based on condition
8. 1976 Bicentennial Half Dollar
The 1976 Bicentennial Half Dollar was issued to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States. Though many of these coins were produced and are common in circulation, certain uncirculated or error versions can still hold significant value. Some error coins, such as those with misprints, can be worth more than their face value.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Multiple locations
- Approximate Value: Increased value for uncirculated or error coins
9. 1950 Franklin Half Dollar
The 1950 Franklin Half Dollar is another highly collectible coin, particularly those featuring full bell lines on the Liberty Bell. This specific feature makes the coin more desirable, pushing its value up to $1,200 at auction for well-preserved examples.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Approximate Value: Up to $1,200 (for coins with full bell lines)
10. 1892 Barber Half Dollar
The 1892 Barber Half Dollar is a rare coin from the late 19th century that holds historical and numismatic value. Its low mintage and antique appeal make it a highly desirable coin for collectors. Depending on condition, an 1892 Barber Half Dollar can reach a value of up to $3,000.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Multiple locations
- Approximate Value: $150 – $3,000
Summary of Valuable Half Dollar Coins
These ten coins are just a few examples of the half dollar coins that could be worth significantly more than their face value. Whether it’s the historical significance, rarity, or unique minting errors that make these coins valuable, it’s important to take a closer look at the coins you may already have.
Coin Names and Value Range:
- 1948 Franklin Half Dollar: $200 – $1,500
- 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar: $10 – $500
- 1955 Franklin Half Dollar: $150 – $1,200
- 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar: $15 – $1,000
- 1916 Walking Liberty Half Dollar: $50 – $2,500
- 1942 Walking Liberty Half Dollar: $30 – $1,200
- 1950 Franklin Half Dollar: $1,200 (with full bell lines)
- 1892 Barber Half Dollar: $150 – $3,000
FAQs About Valuable Half Dollar Coins
Q1: What makes the 1948 Franklin Half Dollar so valuable? The rarity and presence of full bell lines on the Liberty Bell make the 1948 Franklin Half Dollar particularly valuable to collectors.
Q2: Why is the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar sought after? The 90% silver content and its historical context—released after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination—make it highly collectible.
Q3: How much is the 1916 Walking Liberty Half Dollar worth? The 1916 Walking Liberty Half Dollar can range in value from $50 to $2,500, depending on its condition and rarity.
Q4: What is unique about the 1976 Bicentennial Half Dollar? The 1976 Bicentennial Half Dollar was released to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the U.S. and has a unique design. Error versions or uncirculated coins can fetch more than their face value.
Q5: Are error coins more valuable than regular coins? Yes, error coins are often more valuable, as they are rare and can add a unique characteristic to the coin’s appeal among collectors.