The 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar is not only a historic half dollar but is also greatly valued by collectors because of its rarity and characteristics. Certain rare varieties and mint errors increase the value of this coin even more. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of the 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar, the factors influencing its price, and its collectibility.
Historical Context and Composition
The Kennedy Half Dollar was first released in 1964 as a tribute to the US President John F. Kennedy. Until 1968, this coin underwent some serious changes:
- Mint Location – In 1968, this coin was mostly produced by the Denver Mint (D) and the San Francisco Mint (S). Coins produced from the San Francisco Mint were Proof editions.
- Silver Content – During 1965-1970, the Kennedy Half Dollar contained 40% silver and 60% copper, with an overall weight of 11.5 grams. Due to its silver content, it is inherently valuable.
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Factors Affecting Value
The value of a 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar is influenced by various factors:
1. Coin Condition and Grading
Coins are graded from 1 to 70, with higher grades being more expensive.
- Circulated Coins – Coins that have actually been in circulation for everyday transactions and have some degree of wear. Their worth is normally determined by their content of silver, between approximately $4 and $5.
- Uncirculated Coins – These are coins with no wear. If a 1968-D Kennedy Half Dollar is discovered in MS67+ grade, it can go for as much as $5,000. Whereas coins with MS68 grade have sold for as much as $15,000.
2. Proof Coins
Proof coins are specially produced for collectors with greater clarity and luster of the design.
- Mintage – The San Francisco Mint produced around 3,041,506 proof coins in 1968.
- High Grade Proof Coins – In the event that a 1968-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar is discovered in PR70 Deep Cameo (DCAM) quality, its worth comes up to $21,600.
3. Mint Errors and Rare Variants
There are certain mint mistakes that have the ability to multiply the worth of a 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar by many times:
- Doubled Die Error (DDO/DDR) – When the coin design is accidentally printed twice, it reflects double imaging. If the error occurs in a 1968-D Kennedy Half Dollar, then its price can go up to $8,500.
- Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) – When the mint mark is punched twice, it reflects a shadow effect. Coins with the 1968-D RPM Error can be valued between $21 to $80.
- Clipped Planchet – When some portion of the coin edge is clipped or missing, then this error can be seen in such coins that are valued from $20 to $450.
- Struck Through Error – When due to dust and other unwanted things on the coin, the impression is not found to be perfectly clear, this error is called a ‘struck through’ error. Such a coin having MS65 grade sold for $1,000.
1968 Kennedy Half Dollar High Auction Sales
Following are a few instances of high-priced and rare 1968 Kennedy Half Dollars that have sold:
| Year | Coin Type | Grade | Features | Sale Price ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 1968-S Proof | PR70 DCAM | Deep Cameo, Perfect Grade | 21,600 |
| 2020 | 1968-D Uncirculated | MS68 | High Grade Uncirculated | 15,000 |
| 2019 | 1968-D Doubled Die Obverse | MS67+ | Extensive Doubled Die Impacts | 8,500 |
| 2018 | 1968-D RPM Error | MS65 | Repunched Mint Mark | 1,200 |
| 2017 | 1968-D Clipped Planchet | AU58 | Extensive Clipping, Distinct Detail | 750 |
| 2016 | 1968-D Struck Through Error | MS65 | Obverse Design Defect | 1,000 |
Conclusion
The 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar is not only a historic coin, but due to its rarity, it is a valuable collectible. If you possess this coin, examine its condition, grade, and possible errors carefully. This coin can range in price from low value to $21,000+, particularly if it is high grade or contains a rare mint error.
If you are a coin collector, the 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar can certainly be a valuable addition to your collection.
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FAQs
Q1. How much is a 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar worth?
The value depends on its condition and rarity. Circulated coins are worth around $4-$5 for their silver content, while high-grade uncirculated or proof coins can be worth $1,000 to $21,600.
Q2. How can I identify a rare 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar?
Look for mint marks (“D” for Denver, “S” for San Francisco proof coins) and errors like Doubled Die (DDO), Repunched Mint Mark (RPM), or Clipped Planchet, which increase value.
Q3. How do I get my 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar graded?
It was minted at Denver (“D” mint mark) and San Francisco (“S” mint mark for proof coins). No coins were minted in Philadelphia.
Q4. What is the silver content of a 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar?
It consists of 40% silver and 60% copper, weighing 11.5 grams.
Q5. How do I get my 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar graded?
Send it to professional grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) to determine its authenticity and condition.