In the world of coin collecting, few years offer as much intrigue as 1986. This pivotal year saw the production of two distinct half dollar coins, each with its own fascinating history and value. Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or a curious newcomer, understanding the worth of a 1986 half dollar can be both rewarding and enlightening.
The Kennedy Half Dollar: Continuing a Legacy
Design and Historical Significance
The 1986 Kennedy Half Dollar continues the series that began in 1964, honoring the legacy of President John F. Kennedy. This coin features:
- Obverse: A left-facing profile of President Kennedy, designed by Gilroy Roberts
- Reverse: The Presidential Seal, crafted by Frank Gasparro
The design's enduring popularity is a testament to Kennedy's lasting impact on American culture and politics.
Composition and Physical Characteristics
Understanding the coin's physical properties is crucial for collectors:
- Metal Composition: 91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel (cupronickel clad)
- Weight: 11.34 grams
- Diameter: 30.6 mm
- Thickness: 2.15 mm
- Edge: Reeded with 150 reeds
This composition, introduced in 1971, replaced the earlier silver-clad versions.
Mintage Figures
The U.S. Mint produced Kennedy Half Dollars at three locations in 1986:
| Mint Location | Mintage |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia (P) | 13,107,633 |
| Denver (D) | 15,336,145 |
| San Francisco (S) | 3,010,497 (Proof) |
These figures help explain relative scarcity and potential value.
Value by Grade
The value of a 1986 Kennedy Half Dollar can vary significantly based on its condition:
1986-P Kennedy Half Dollar:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| MS 65 | $15 |
| MS 66 | $42 |
| MS 67 | $160 |
| MS 67+ | $850 |
| MS 68 | $4,500 |
| MS 68+ | $15,000 |
1986-D Kennedy Half Dollar:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| MS 65 | $18 |
| MS 66 | $26 |
| MS 67 | $85 |
| MS 67+ | $275 |
| MS 68 | $4,250 |
1986-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| PR 64 DCAM | $4 |
| PR 66+ DCAM | $6 |
| PR 68 DCAM | $8 |
| PR 69 DCAM | $16 |
| PR 70 DCAM | $46 |
Notable Sales and Auction Records
Some exceptional specimens have fetched remarkable prices:
- An MS 67 1986-P Kennedy Half Dollar sold for $295 on eBay in April 2021
- An MS 68 1986-D Kennedy Half Dollar achieved $4,818 at auction in September 2019
These sales highlight the potential value for high-grade specimens.
The Statue of Liberty Commemorative Half Dollar: Celebrating American Icons
Design and Historical Context
1986 marked the centennial of the Statue of Liberty, and the U.S. Mint commemorated this milestone with a special half dollar:
- Obverse: A back view of the Statue of Liberty, designed by Edgar Z. Steever
- Reverse: An immigrant family arriving at Ellis Island, designed by Sheryl J. Winter
This coin symbolizes America's heritage as a nation of immigrants and its enduring commitment to liberty.
Mintage and Varieties
The Statue of Liberty Half Dollar was produced at two mints:
| Mint Location | Mintage | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Denver (D) | 928,008 | Business Strike |
| San Francisco (S) | 6,925,627 | Proof |
The lower mintage of the business strike version makes it potentially more valuable in high grades.
Value by Grade
1986-D Statue of Liberty Half Dollar:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| MS 65 | $9 |
| MS 66 | $10 |
| MS 67 | $10 |
| MS 68 | $13 |
1986-S Proof Statue of Liberty Half Dollar:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| PR 64 DCAM | $8 |
| PR 68 DCAM | $13 |
| PR 69 DCAM | $22 |
| PR 70 DCAM | $46 |
Remarkable Sales
Some exceptional examples have achieved impressive prices:
- An MS 70 1986-D Statue of Liberty Half Dollar sold for $1,425 on eBay in March 2010
- A PR 69 DCAM 1986-S Statue of Liberty Half Dollar fetched $690 in January 2007
Factors Influencing Value
Several key factors determine a 1986 half dollar's worth:
- Condition: Mint State (MS) coins command higher prices, with MS 70 being the pinnacle.
- Mint Mark: Rarity can vary by mint location.
- Errors: Mint errors like doubled dies or off-center strikes can significantly increase value.
- Preservation: Proper storage maintains a coin's condition over time.
- Market Demand: Collector interest fluctuates, affecting prices.
- Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance value for some collectors.
- Population Reports: The number of coins graded at each level affects rarity and price.
Grading Your 1986 Half Dollar
Professional grading is crucial for determining a coin's true value. Major grading services include:
- Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS)
- Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC)
- American Numismatic Association Certification Service (ANACS)
These services use the Sheldon Scale (1-70) to grade coins. Before submitting for professional grading:
- Examine your coin under good lighting
- Use a magnifying glass to check for wear and imperfections
- Compare to online images of graded specimens
- Look for signs of cleaning or damage
Where to Sell Your 1986 Half Dollar
If you believe you have a valuable 1986 Half Dollar, consider these options:
- Online marketplaces (eBay, Heritage Auctions)
- Local coin shops
- Coin shows and exhibitions
- Direct sales to collectors through forums like CoinTalk or Reddit's r/Coins
Always research current market prices and get multiple opinions before selling. The Red Book (A Guide Book of United States Coins) is an excellent resource for current retail values.
Preserving Your Coin's Value
To maintain your 1986 Half Dollar's condition:
- Handle coins by their edges using cotton gloves
- Store in non-PVC holders or albums
- Keep in a cool, dry environment with stable humidity
- Avoid cleaning, which can damage the surface and reduce value
- Consider using inert gas capsules for long-term storage of valuable specimens
The Broader Context: 1986 in Numismatics
The year 1986 was significant in U.S. coinage beyond just half dollars:
- Introduction of the American Silver Eagle bullion coin
- Last year of copper-nickel Eisenhower Dollars
- Continued production of Susan B. Anthony Dollars for vending machines
Understanding this context can enhance appreciation for 1986 half dollars.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of 1986 Half Dollars
The 1986 half dollar, whether the Kennedy or Statue of Liberty variety, offers a fascinating glimpse into American history and numismatics. While most circulated examples are worth their face value, high-grade specimens and those with errors can be quite valuable.
For coin collectors, these coins represent more than just monetary value – they're tangible connections to America's past and its enduring symbols of liberty and democracy. The Kennedy Half Dollar continues a series honoring a beloved president, while the Statue of Liberty Commemorative celebrates one of America's most iconic symbols.
As you explore the world of 1986 half dollars, remember that coin collecting is as much about passion and historical appreciation as it is about investment. Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or just starting your coin collecting journey, the 1986 half dollar offers a rich subject for study, collection, and potential profit.
By understanding the factors that influence these coins' value and taking proper care of your specimens, you can ensure that your 1986 half dollars remain treasured pieces of American numismatic history for years to come.
