A Kennedy Half Dollar Given as Graduation Gift: Imagine finding a coin from a high school graduation gift worth $7 million! A Kennedy Half Dollar, given as a keepsake in the late 1960s, has turned into a worldwide sensation after a retiree discovered it in an old jewelry box. First minted in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, this 50-cent coin is a collector’s dream due to rare errors and pristine condition. Now, this special coin, likely a 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) with a unique flaw, is sparking excitement across the globe. Here’s the story, how to spot a valuable one, and why it’s got everyone talking.
A Coin Tied to History
The Kennedy Half Dollar was created in 1964, just months after President Kennedy’s assassination, designed by Gilroy Roberts and Frank Gasparro. Its front shows Kennedy’s portrait, approved by Jacqueline Kennedy, and the back features the Presidential Seal. Early coins were 90% silver, making them instant keepsakes, with many hoarded by families. Gifting coins for graduations was common back then, symbolizing hope and pride. This particular coin, found during a retiree’s move, turned out to be a rare gem, possibly a 1964 SMS or error coin, valued at over $7 million for its rarity and condition. On X, people are buzzing, saying, “Check your old gifts!”
How to Spot a Valuable Kennedy Half Dollar
Finding a million-dollar coin takes a sharp eye. Here’s what to look for:
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Check the year: Focus on 1964, especially with no mint mark (Philadelphia).
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Look for the SMS finish: Special Mint Set coins have a satin-like shine, sharper than regular coins.
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Spot errors: Look for doubled images of Kennedy’s profile or misaligned text.
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Check condition: Pristine, uncirculated coins with no scratches are worth more.
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Weigh it: 1964 coins are 12.5 grams (90% silver); later ones (1971+) are 11.34 grams (copper-nickel).
Don’t clean coins—it lowers their value. Store them in plastic holders and get them checked by PCGS or NGC for authenticity.
Why This Coin Is Worth Millions
This Kennedy Half Dollar’s value comes from its rarity and unique features. Experts believe it’s a 1964 SMS, with fewer than 10 known, or has a rare minting error like a doubled profile, which collectors love. Its near-perfect condition, even after decades, adds to its worth—estimated at $7 million, though some claim $5.9 million for similar coins. The emotional story of a graduation gift from the 1960s, a time of hope and change, makes it more than just money. On X, collectors call it “a piece of history,” driving a surge in interest, with auction houses reporting more inquiries about Kennedy Half Dollars.
Where to Find These Treasures
This valuable coin could be in your home—in a jewelry box, coin jar, or old wallet. The retiree found theirs while sorting through mementos, and a Pennsylvania gas station customer spotted one in change, valued at $3.21 million. Check old family gifts, bank rolls, or estate sales. On X, someone shared, “Found a 1964 Kennedy in my dad’s drawer—sold for $2,000!” Coin shops, eBay, or flea markets are good spots, but beware of fakes. With millions minted, rare ones like the SMS or error coins could still be out there, especially from the 1960s.
Tips to Start Your Hunt
Ready to search? Here’s how to begin:
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Use a magnifying glass to check for doubled images or SMS finish.
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Look for 1964 coins with a shiny, satin-like surface.
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Store coins in acid-free holders to protect them.
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Get suspicious coins graded by PCGS or NGC to confirm value.
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Check coinvaluechecker.com for tips on spotting rare coins.
Avoid cleaning coins, as it ruins their worth, and deal with trusted sellers to avoid scams.
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Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Year |
1964 (Key for Rare SMS or Errors) |
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Mint Marks |
None (Philadelphia), D (Denver), S (San Francisco) |
|
Material |
90% Silver (1964), Copper-Nickel (1971+) |
|
Weight |
12.5g (1964), 11.34g (1971+) |
|
Value |
50¢ (Common) to $7M+ (SMS, Errors) |
This $7 million Kennedy Half Dollar, once a simple graduation gift, is now a global sensation, blending history, rarity, and emotion. Check your old boxes or change—you might have a treasure. Visit pcgs.com or ngccoin.com for appraisals and start hunting for your piece of history
