Kennedy Half Dollars: Are You Holding a Hidden Gem?
Teh 2023-D Kennedy half dollar is creating a buzz among coin collectors and resellers. Its value has seen a significant increase, especially for uncirculated versions. Surprisingly,many americans might unknowingly possess one of these possibly valuable coins.
The Resurgence of the Kennedy Half Dollar
While the Kennedy half dollar’s everyday use declined in the mid-1980s, the U.S. Mint continued its production. In 2023, the Denver Mint set a new record, minting 27.8 million coins, the highest number as 1983.
Did You Know?
The Kennedy half dollar was first minted in 1964, shortly after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination,as a tribute to his memory.
From 50 Cents to Collector’s Item
Initially,these coins were available at banks for their face value of 50 cents. However, collector interest and limited availability have driven up the price of uncirculated versions.
- Base Value: An uncirculated 2023-D Kennedy half dollar typically sells for around $1.50, three times its nominal value.
- Certified Specimens: The real value lies in certified coins with high grades.
Pro tip:
Always handle coins by the edges to avoid leaving fingerprints, which can affect their grade and value.
The Value of High-Grade Coins
Certified coins can fetch significantly higher prices, depending on their grade:
- MS67 Rating: Coins graded MS67 are selling for between $60 and $80.
- MS68 Rating: Coins graded MS68 have reached prices exceeding $1,000.
As of April 2025, certification houses have identified very few pieces with the highest grades.For instance, PCGS has certified only 10 coins as MS68, making them extremely scarce. Some of these have been sold on eBay for up to $1,095.
its value has risen considerably in the secondary market, especially in its version in a state without circular.
Reader Question:
What factors determine a coin’s grade?
NGC vs.PCGS: grading Discrepancies
NGC has certified 45 coins as MS69, but these are curiously selling for less, around $399.95. The price difference is partly due to the market’s perception of each company’s grading rigor.
Acquisition and Availability
Many of these coins were distributed through collection games or uncirculated sets sold by the Mint. The official uncirculated set of 2023,including the Kennedy half dollar,was sold for $29 and can now cost over $40 in the secondary market.
Thay were also available in rolls of 20 or bags of 200, priced higher than their total metallic value. This led many to purchase them out of curiosity, unaware they might be holding a numismatic treasure.
Expert Advice
Given the high circulation and relative newness of the 2023-D Kennedy half dollar, it is advisable to have any coin in good condition examined by an expert to confirm its value, as not all coins are worth more than their face value.
It is recommended that if you have a 50 cents in good condition of the year 2023 you take it with an expert to examine it and confirm its value, since not all currencies have a value greater than their nominal figure.
FAQ: 2023-D Kennedy Half Dollar
Q: Why is the 2023-D Kennedy half dollar valuable?
A: Limited availability and collector interest have increased its value, especially for uncirculated versions and certified high-grade specimens.
Q: how many 2023-D Kennedy half dollars were minted?
A: The Denver Mint produced 27.8 million copies in 2023,the highest number since 1983.
Q: Where can I get my coin graded?
A: Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) are reputable grading services.
Q: What does “MS” stand for in coin grading?
A: “MS” stands for Mint State, indicating a coin’s condition.
