The Kennedy half dollar, introduced in 1964, stands as a poignant tribute to President John F. Kennedy following his assassination in 1963.
Beyond its commemorative purpose, this coin ignited a widespread interest in coin collecting, leaving an indelible mark on numismatics.
Design and Introduction
The obverse of the Kennedy half dollar features a left-profile portrait of President Kennedy, designed by Gilroy Roberts, while the reverse showcases the presidential seal, crafted by Frank Gasparro.
The coin was rapidly approved and minted, reflecting the nation’s desire to honor the fallen president promptly.
Public Reception and Hoarding
Upon its release, the Kennedy half dollar was met with overwhelming public enthusiasm. Many individuals hoarded the coin as a memento of the late president, leading to a significant surge in coin collecting during that era.
Silver Content and Subsequent Changes
Initially, the coin was minted with 90% silver content. However, due to rising silver prices and hoarding, the composition was altered in 1965 to a 40% silver clad, and eventually, in 1971, silver was entirely removed, transitioning to a copper-nickel clad composition.
Mintage Figures Over the Years
The Kennedy half dollar has seen varying mintage figures since its inception. For instance, in 1964, over 430 million coins were produced, while in 1970, only 2.1 million were minted, making the 1970-D Kennedy half dollar a key coin for collectors.
| Year | Mint Mark | Composition | Mintage | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | P & D | 90% Silver | 430 million | First year of issue |
| 1965 | P | 40% Silver Clad | 65.8 million | Composition change |
| 1970 | D | 40% Silver Clad | 2.1 million | Key date for collectors |
| 1971 | P & D | Copper-Nickel Clad | 457 million | Silver removed entirely |
The Kennedy half dollar not only serves as a tribute to a beloved president but also played a pivotal role in sparking widespread interest in coin collecting.
Its evolving composition and varying mintage figures offer a rich tapestry for numismatists and history enthusiasts alike.
FAQs
What makes the 1970-D Kennedy half dollar special?
The 1970-D Kennedy half dollar is notable due to its low mintage of only 2.1 million coins, making it a key date for collectors.
Why was silver removed from the Kennedy half dollar?
Rising silver prices and hoarding led to the reduction of silver content in 1965 and its complete removal in 1971 to ensure the coin’s circulation.
Are Kennedy half dollars still being minted?
Yes, Kennedy half dollars continue to be minted, primarily for collectors, with varying compositions over the years.
