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How to Identify Half-Dollar Coins

The half-dollar was one of the original denominations introduced by the Mint Act of 1792, which created a federally authorized coinage. Struck in silver in Philadelphia, the coin's design was intended to be, in the words of the Mint Act, "emblematic of Liberty." Over the next 150 years, the half-dollar was restyled many times. In the 1920s and '30s, commemorative versions were issued. Since 1964, it's depicted the late U.S. President John F. Kennedy. In 1971, the use of silver was discontinued. All half-dollars since then have been made of cupro-nickel (an alloy made of copper and nickel). As of 2010, the main demand for half-dollars is in casinos, but for collectors it is a coin with a great history.

Instructions

- 1
  Read all of the lettering on the coin. It should have the legend "United States of America," the denomination "Half Dollar" and the motto "In God We Trust." Most half-dollars will also have the motto "Liberty," usually across the top of the obverse (the front or portrait face of the coin.)
- 2
  Examine the obverse. With Kennedy half-dollars, check the date printed on the coin. The first mintages were .900 fine silver. After the Coinage Act of 1965 and until 1971, this dropped to .400 fine (actually an 80 percent silver sandwich with a 21 percent silver filling.) Look for a 1964 proof issue with accented hair, a detail apparently included at the insistence of Jaqueline Kennedy, the slain president's widow.
- 3
  Use the design to identify the broad category of half-dollar. Before the Kennedy half-dollar came the Franklin half dollar. This was designed by John R. Sinnock, with Franklin's profile on one side and the Liberty Bell on the other. It was in production from 1948 to 1963. With the exception of commemoratives, the coins prior to that represent Liberty in some form.

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