The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is an important piece of American coin history. It was the last regular half dollar made with silver. This coin surprised many collectors because it was only sold in Mint Sets, and the U.S. Mint didn’t promote it well. By the time collectors realized it was collectible, it was hard to find. With over two million Mint Sets created, the 1970-D became the rarest Kennedy Half Dollar until 2006. Let’s explore the history, design, and market value of this interesting coin.
Background of the Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1960s were a time of change for America, and this included the coins people used. Here’s a look at what was happening during that decade:
| Key Events | Description |
|---|---|
| Post-War Economic Boom | Increased demand for coins due to a growing economy. |
| Rising Demand for Silver | Higher global demand led the U.S. Treasury to sell off silver reserves. |
| Change in Coin Production | Introduction of copper-nickel coins in 1965 after a freeze on silver coins. |
| Reduction of Silver Content | The Kennedy Half Dollar’s silver content was reduced from 90% to 40% in 1965. |
In 1970, the Mint decided they had enough silver-clad Kennedy Half Dollars in circulation. So, they only produced the 1970-D for that year’s Mint Sets, which caught many regular buyers by surprise.
Design of the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
The Kennedy Half Dollar features a unique design that honors John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States. The coin’s details are as follows:
Obverse Design
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Designer | Gilroy Roberts |
| Image | Profile of John F. Kennedy |
| Inscription | “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date “1970” with the mintmark “D” for Denver |
Reverse Design
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Designer | Frank Gasparro |
| Image | An eagle holding arrows (symbolizing war) and an olive branch (symbolizing peace) |
| Inscription | “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DOLLAR” with 50 stars surrounding the eagle |
Edge Design
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Edge Type | Reeded |
Market Data and Collectibility
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is known for its low availability and increasing value. Here’s a summary of its market data:
| Grade | Typical Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MS62 – MS65 | $200 – $250 | Many coins have noticeable contact marks |
| MS66 | Up to $500 | Better condition, fewer contact marks |
| MS67 | $7,000 or more | Very rare, minimal contact marks, high visual appeal |
Recent Auction Sales
| Grade | Auction House | Sale Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS66 | Heritage Auctions | $250 | Light marks but overall good quality |
| MS67 | GreatCollections | $7,500 | Excellent condition, few marks |
| MS67+ | PCGS | $8,000 | Top-quality, rare example |
Conclusion
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is a significant coin in American numismatics. As the last regular-strike half dollar to contain silver, it is a favorite among collectors. The unique design and limited availability make it an attractive piece for both new and seasoned enthusiasts. Understanding the history, rarity, and market trends is crucial for anyone looking to add this coin to their collection. With prices continuing to rise, the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is more than just a coin—it’s a piece of history worth investing in.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar important to collectors?
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is significant because it was the last regular-strike half dollar to contain silver. Its limited availability, as it was only sold in Mint Sets, makes it a sought-after collectible among numismatists.
What is the typical market price for the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar?
The price for a 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar typically ranges from $200 to $250 for coins graded between MS62 and MS65. Rarer examples in higher grades, like MS67, can sell for $7,000 or more.
Who designed the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar?
The obverse of the coin, featuring John F. Kennedy, was designed by Gilroy Roberts. The reverse, which showcases an eagle, was designed by Frank Gasparro.