Imagine discovering a coin in your pocket change that could be worth millions of dollars. The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, particularly the ultra-rare SMS “Accentuated Hair” variety, recently sold for $19.9 million, making it the most valuable modern U.S. coin ever. Could your next bank roll hold a hidden treasure?
The Story Behind the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
After President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963, the U.S. Mint quickly struck coins in his honor. The first Kennedy half dollars were produced in 1964 with 90% silver, and over 430 million were minted. While most entered circulation normally, a tiny subset received Special Mint Set (SMS) treatment—these are the coins collectors prize today.
Why the SMS “Accentuated Hair” Coin Is So Valuable
The “Accentuated Hair” design shows Kennedy with sharper, more detailed hair. Only 12–20 examples are believed to exist, and the finest-known piece, graded PCGS MS-69, sold for $19,975,000 in 2025. Extreme rarity combined with perfect condition drives prices into the millions.
| Rank | Coin Type | Highest Grade | Record Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1964 SMS Accentuated Hair | PCGS MS-69 | $19,975,000 |
| 2 | 1964 SMS (regular) | PCGS MS-68 | $156,000 |
| 3 | 1970-D Mint Set | MS-67+ | $25,000+ |
| 4 | 1964-D Repunched Mintmark | MS-67 | $18,000 |
| 5 | 1971-D Friendly Eagle | MS-67 | $12,000 |
| 6 | 1966 SMS Doubled Die | MS-68 CAM | $9,500 |
| 7 | 1974-D Double Die Obverse | MS-67 | $5,000 |
| 8 | 1964 Proof Deep Cameo | PR-69 DCAM | $4,500–$8,000 |
Can You Still Find One in Circulation?
- Regular 1964 90% silver halves: Occasionally, yes; worth $10–$15 each
- 1970-D halves: Very rare, but still possible in rolls; $800–$25,000
- SMS “Accentuated Hair” coins: Almost impossible—these never entered circulation
While finding the $19.9 million coin is unlikely, silver halves and other key dates are still accessible to determined collectors.
How to Hunt Rare Kennedy Half Dollars
Step-by-Step Tips
- Ask banks for half dollar rolls—many still have 1965–1969 40% silver halves
- Check the edge: Pre-1971 = silver; 1971+ = copper-nickel stripe
- Look for errors: Doubled dies, repunched mintmarks, or unusual details
- Use a magnifying loupe: A 10× loupe helps spot subtle differences
- Join collector communities: Facebook groups and coin clubs share discoveries
Quick Reference Table
| Coin Type | Still Possible in Circulation? | Average Value if Found |
|---|---|---|
| 1964 90% silver | Yes | $10–$15 |
| 1965–1969 40% silver | Sometimes | $5–$8 |
| 1970-D Mint Set | Rare, but possible | $800–$25,000 |
| 1964 SMS $19.9M | Almost impossible | Life-changing |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Are Kennedy half dollars still produced?
A: Yes, mostly for mint sets and collector rolls. Banks rarely carry them.
Q2: Which Kennedy halves are easiest to find with value?
A: 1965–1969 40% silver coins are still occasionally found in circulation.
Q3: Should I spend silver Kennedy halves?
A: No. Even circulated coins are worth 12–15× face value.
Q4: Can I verify a rare Kennedy half at home?
A: You can check weight, edge, and mint mark, but authentication by PCGS or NGC is recommended for high-value coins.
Q5: Are there smaller Kennedy half errors worth money?
A: Yes. Doubled dies, repunched mintmarks, and SMS regular coins can sell for $5,000–$150,000 depending on condition.
Final Thoughts – Your Next Bank Roll Could Be a Treasure
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar proves that life-changing coins can be hiding in plain sight. While discovering the $19.9 million SMS coin is highly unlikely, even finding silver halves or key-date errors can yield hundreds to thousands of dollars. Next time you see a box of half dollars at the bank, grab a few rolls—you could strike numismatic gold.