1974 Kennedy Half Dollar: From Face Value To $8,000 Auction Record

The Kennedy half dollar is a coin that holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans due to its connection to President John F. Kennedy and his tragic assassination.

The 1974 Kennedy half dollar is a particularly noteworthy coin due to its association with the Bicentennial coinage and the Denver Mint's relocation.

With a mintage of over 79 million pieces, the value of a 1974 half dollar can vary greatly depending on its condition and rarity.

This article will delve into the history and design of the 1974 Kennedy half dollar, as well as its minting and production.

We will also explore the various varieties and errors that can affect the value of this coin, including the rare 1974-D Doubled Die Obverse, which has an auction record of $8,000.

Additionally, we will discuss the grading and valuation of 1974 Kennedy half dollars, and provide tips for those interested in selling or collecting these coins.

History and Design

The Kennedy half dollar, minted in 1974, holds historical significance as a commemoration of President John F. Kennedy. Following his assassination in 1963, there was a rush to develop a new design for the half dollar that would honor his legacy.

The obverse of the 1974 half dollar features a bust of Kennedy and the words LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the year mark, while the reverse features an eagle with wings and legs spread in four directions, holding arrows and an olive branch, with the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM and the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and HALF DOLLAR.

The obverse designer of the 1974 half dollar was Gilroy Roberts, and the reverse designer was Frank Gasparro. The coin was minted in the USA with a mintage of over 79 million pieces. The edges of the 1974 half dollar are reeded with 150 reeds, and it is made of 75% copper, 25% nickel, and 100% copper core, weighs 11.34 grams, and has a diameter of 30.60 mm.

While the value of a 1974 half dollar can range from 50 cents to thousands of dollars depending on condition and rarity, the coin remains an important part of American history and numismatics.

Minting and Production

Minting and production of the 1974 half dollar involved the Denver Mint striking nearly 80 million coins, with various types including no mint mark, 1974-D, and 1974-S.

The 1974 half dollar was made of 75% copper, 25% nickel, and a 100% copper core.

The coin weighs 11.34 grams, has a diameter of 30.60 mm, and has reeded edges with 150 reeds.

The obverse of the coin features a bust of Kennedy with the words LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the year mark.

The reverse design features an eagle with wings and legs spread in four directions, holding arrows and an olive branch, with the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM and the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and HALF DOLLAR.

Mint marks are located below Kennedy's neck, with coins minted in Philadelphia having no mint mark.

The 1974 half dollar does not have any silver content, and some minted silver proof 1974 half dollars exist, but they are rare and do not appear on the market often.

More about 1973 Half Dollar

Varieties and Errors

Varieties and errors found on the 1974 half dollar can have a significant impact on its value and rarity.

One such variation is the no mint mark variety, which was produced in Philadelphia and has no identifying mint mark. These coins can range in value from 50 cents to several thousand dollars, depending on their condition and grade.

The 1974-D half dollar is another variation, which has a mint mark indicating it was produced in Denver. Coins in exceptional condition can be valued at over $200, while those in lower grades can still fetch a respectable price.

The 1974 half dollar also has a recognized Doubled Die Obverse variation, which can increase its value significantly. The doubling appears on the right side of the coin's motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST,'as well as the 'T'in 'LIBERTY'and the '4'in '1974.'

Another error that can affect the value of a 1974 half dollar is a Clipped Planchet 50C, which occurs when a round die clips the coin's edge, creating a cookie-cutter type pattern. Coins with this error may have a small crescent missing from their edge, and their value depends on the extent of the error and the coin's overall condition.

Grading and Value

Grading and determining the value of a 1974 half dollar is a complex process that involves evaluating its overall condition, rarity, and any potential errors or variations. The grading system for coins ranges from face value to MS66, MS67, and PR-65, with higher grades indicating higher value.

Factors that affect the grading and value of a 1974 half dollar include scratches, wear, discoloration, and damage, with coins in uncirculated condition being the most valuable.

The value of a 1974 half dollar can range from 50 cents to thousands of dollars depending on its condition and rarity. Well-kept 1974-D half dollars in MS-65 and MS-66 can cost between $60 and $75, while MS-67 can cost between $200 and $300. The recognized Doubled Die Obverse variations of the 1974-D half dollar can be worth over $50 in the highest mint condition, and the auction record for a no mint mark 1974 Kennedy half dollar is $8,000.

It's important to note that the value of a 1974 half dollar can vary depending on the market, and it's recommended to consult with a professional numismatist or use reputable sources when determining the value of a coin.

Selling and Collecting Tips

When it comes to collecting and selling 1974 half dollars, it is important to research current market trends and use reputable sources to determine the coin's value. eBay is a popular platform for buying and selling 1974 half dollars, but private online auctions may be a better option for coins with exceptional condition and higher value. It is also important to keep the coin in good condition by storing it in a protective holder and avoiding touching it with bare hands, as oils and dirt can damage the surface of the coin.

In addition to selling, collecting 1974 half dollars can be a fun and rewarding hobby. It is important to be aware of the different variations of the coin, such as the no mint mark variety, the 1974-D half dollar, the 1974-S half dollar, and the Double Die Obverse 1974 half dollar, and to understand how these variations can affect the coin's value. Building a collection of 1974 half dollars in different grades and variations can be a fulfilling pursuit, and attending coin shows and joining coin collecting clubs can provide opportunities to connect with other collectors and learn more about the hobby.

| Tips for Selling and Collecting 1974 Half Dollars | | --- | --- | --- | | Research current market trends to determine value | Store coins in protective holder | | Use reputable sources for selling and buying | Avoid touching coins with bare hands | | Consider private online auctions for high value coins | Attend coin shows and join collecting clubs | | Keep track of your collection's value and update it regularly. |