The 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar holds a special place in numismatic history, not only for its commemorative significance but also for its unique composition and potential value to collectors. While many of these coins are common, certain variations and errors can make them particularly valuable.
This article delves into the factors that elevate the worth of 1968 Kennedy Half Dollars and provides insights for enthusiasts and collectors.
Historical Context and Composition
Introduced in 1964 to honor the late President John F. Kennedy, the Kennedy Half Dollar quickly became a symbol of national remembrance. By 1968, the coin underwent notable changes:
- Mint Locations: Production shifted primarily to the Denver Mint, denoted by the “D” mint mark, and the San Francisco Mint, indicated by the “S” mint mark for proof coins.
- Silver Content: From 1965 to 1970, Kennedy Half Dollars were minted with a composition of 40% silver and 60% copper, weighing 11.5 grams. This silver content contributes to the coin’s intrinsic value.
Factors Influencing Value
Several elements can significantly impact the value of a 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar:
1. Mint State and Grading
The condition of the coin plays a crucial role in its valuation. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher grades indicating superior preservation.
- Circulated Coins: Commonly found in everyday transactions, these coins typically exhibit wear and are valued primarily for their silver content, approximately $4 to $5 based on current market rates.
- Uncirculated Coins: Coins that have not entered general circulation and show no signs of wear. High-grade uncirculated coins, especially those graded MS67 or higher, can command premium prices. For instance, a 1968-D Kennedy Half Dollar graded MS67+ has been valued at $5,000, while an MS68 grade can reach up to $15,000.
2. Proof Coins
Proof coins are specially minted for collectors, featuring sharp details and a mirror-like finish. The 1968-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar is notable:
- Mintage: Approximately 3,041,506 proof coins were produced at the San Francisco Mint.
- High-Grade Proofs: Coins graded PR69 or PR70 (near-perfect condition) are particularly valuable. A 1968-S Proof Half Dollar graded PR70 Deep Cameo (DCAM) was valued at $21,600 in November 2021.
3. Mint Errors and Varieties
Mint errors occur during the production process, leading to unique and often rare coin variations. Collectors highly prize these anomalies:
- Doubled Die (DDO/DDR): This error results from a misalignment during the striking process, causing a doubling effect on the coin’s design. A 1968-D Kennedy Half Dollar with a prominent doubled die can fetch significant premiums.
- Repunched Mint Mark (RPM): Occurs when the mint mark is stamped more than once, leading to a shadowed appearance. Examples of 1968-D coins with RPM errors have been listed for sale at prices ranging from $21 to $80, depending on the coin’s condition and the prominence of the error.
- Clipped Planchet: This error happens when a portion of the coin’s edge is missing due to a misfeed during the blanking process. Such coins have been observed with asking prices between $20 and $450, contingent on the severity of the clip and overall coin condition.
- Struck Through Errors: These occur when foreign materials (like grease or debris) interfere during the striking process, resulting in missing or blurred design elements. A 1968-D Kennedy Half Dollar with an obverse struck-through error graded MS65 was auctioned, highlighting the collectible nature of such pieces.
Top Auction Sales of 1968 Kennedy Half Dollars
| Year Sold | Coin Type | Grade | Notable Features | Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 1968-S Proof | PR70 DCAM | Perfect grade, deep cameo | $21,600 |
| 2020 | 1968-D Mint State | MS68 | High-grade uncirculated | $15,000 |
| 2019 | 1968-D Doubled Die Obverse | MS67+ | Prominent doubling | $8,500 |
| 2018 | 1968-D RPM Error | MS65 | Repunched mint mark | $1,200 |
| 2017 | 1968-D Clipped Planchet | AU58 | Severe clip, visible detail | $750 |
| 2016 | 1968-D Struck Through Error | MS65 | Obverse struck through debris | $1,000 |
FAQs
- How can I tell if my 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar is silver?
- All 1968 Kennedy Half Dollars contain 40% silver. Check the coin’s edge; silver coins lack the copper stripe found on modern clad coins. Weighing the coin (~11.5 grams) is another reliable method.
- Are all 1968 Kennedy Half Dollars valuable?
- Not necessarily. Circulated coins typically carry value equal to their silver content ($4-$5). However, high-grade uncirculated coins, proof coins, and error varieties can fetch much higher prices.
- What makes the proof versions more valuable?
- 1968-S proof coins, especially those graded PR69 or PR70 Deep Cameo (DCAM), are rare in pristine condition. Their mirror-like finish and sharp details are highly prized by collectors, with some selling for over $20,000.
- Should I clean my coin before selling it?
- No. Cleaning a coin can significantly reduce its value. Collectors prefer coins in their original, unaltered condition—even if they show signs of aging.
The 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar is more than just a piece of currency—it’s a piece of American history with potential for significant financial value. While many of these coins are worth only their silver content, rare varieties, mint errors, and high-grade proofs can fetch thousands, with some topping $21,000 at auction.
