Kennedy Half Dollar Found: Talk about a family
Kennedy Half Dollar Found: Talk about a family heirloom turning into a fortune! A rare 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar, discovered in a dusty coin box in a New Jersey attic, just sold for a staggering $108,000 at a 2025 auction. This special mint set (SMS) coin, one of only a dozen known, is a collector’s dream due to its unique finish and rarity. Unearthed by a family sorting through their late grandfather’s belongings, it sparked a bidding frenzy at Stack’s Bowers in July 2025. These coins are still legal tender, so one could be hiding in your change! Let’s dive into why this half dollar is worth so much and how to spot one. Kennedy Half Dollar Found
A Coin with a Heartfelt Story
The Kennedy Half Dollar was minted in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy after his tragic assassination. Featuring JFK’s portrait on the front and the presidential seal on the back, it was struck in 90% silver that year. Most 1964 halves are common, worth $5-$20 for their silver, but the SMS versions—made with a polished, satin-like finish for special collector sets—are ultra-rare. Only a few escaped the U.S. Mint, possibly as test strikes, making them a numismatic legend that collectors crave. Kennedy Half Dollar Found
Why It’s Worth Over $100,000
What makes this coin a six-figure treasure? The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar has a distinct, ultra-sharp finish, with frosted details and mirror-like fields, unlike regular circulation coins. Graded SP-68 by PCGS, this coin was near-perfect, with no scratches and a brilliant shine. Only about 12 are known, and their mysterious origin—possibly experimental strikes never meant for release—adds to the allure. Similar SMS halves have sold for $47,000-$156,000, but this one’s pristine condition and 2025 market hype pushed it to $108,000, a record for Stack’s Bowers. Kennedy Half Dollar Found
A Family’s Lucky Find
The story started when a New Jersey family was cleaning out their grandfather’s attic after his passing. Among old photos and trinkets, they found a small coin box with a shiny 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar that stood out. A local coin dealer recognized its SMS finish and sent it to PCGS, which confirmed its rarity. Stack’s Bowers auctioned it in July 2025, drawing collectors from across the U.S. Social media lit up with the tale, inspiring folks to check their own family collections for hidden gems. It’s a reminder that keepsakes can turn into life-changing windfalls! Kennedy Half Dollar Found
How to Spot an SMS Kennedy Half
Think you’ve got a valuable half dollar? Here’s what to look for in a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar: check for no mint mark (Philadelphia mint) and a super-sharp, polished look with frosted details. It should be 90% silver, weighing 12.5 grams, with no copper edge like later clad coins. Use a magnifying glass to inspect for flawless surfaces—no wear or scratches. Regular 1964 halves are common, but SMS coins have a distinct, almost proof-like sheen. Don’t clean it—cleaning kills value! Take it to a coin shop or grading service like PCGS or NGC for verification. Kennedy Half Dollar Found
The Coin Hunt Goes Wild
This $108,000 sale has kicked off a coin-collecting craze, with Kennedy Half Dollars still circulating in change or tucked away in old collections. Stories of rare finds—like a 1964 SMS spotted in a bank roll—keep the excitement alive. Other valuable Kennedy halves include 1964 proofs or 1970-D coins, worth $50-$5,000. Social media’s buzzing with collectors sharing tips, and auction houses are seeing a surge in interest. Be wary of fakes; only pros can confirm an SMS coin. Whether you’re a collector or just curious, checking your half dollars is a fun treasure hunt! Kennedy Half Dollar Found
A Piece of American History
The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar isn’t just money—it’s a tribute to a beloved president and a snapshot of a nation in mourning. Finding one is like uncovering a rare piece of 1960s history, with the bonus of a potential fortune. So, dig through your change, old piggy banks, or family keepsakes. You might just find a coin worth thousands—or even millions. Visit pcgs.com, ngccoin.com, or a local coin shop for more info, and join the hunt for this legendary half dollar!
Specifications
Details
Year – 1964 (Philadelphia, no mint mark)
Design – Obverse: John F. Kennedy; Reverse: Presidential seal
Material – 90% silver, 10% copper (12.5g)
Finish – Special Mint Set (SMS), polished, satin-like
Grade – SP-68 (PCGS, near-perfect condition)
Mintage – ~12 known (out of 273 million 1964 halves)
Value – Common: $5-$20; SMS: $47,000-$108,000+