The jingle of coins in your pocket might be worth more than you think. Among them, the 1979 Kennedy half dollar stands out as a fascinating piece of American numismatic history. As a seasoned US coin collecting expert, I'm here to guide you through the intricate world of this coin, its value, and what makes it special.
The Kennedy Half Dollar: A Coin Born from Tragedy
The Kennedy half dollar series, first minted in 1964, holds a poignant place in American coinage. Created to honor President John F. Kennedy following his assassination in 1963, this coin series has captivated collectors for decades.
- Introduced on March 24, 1964, just four months after Kennedy's death
- Initially struck in 90% silver, reflecting its memorial status
- Composition changed to 40% silver in 1965, then to cupronickel clad in 1971
By 1979, the half dollar had become less common in circulation, but production continued for collectors and limited commercial use.
Understanding the 1979 Half Dollar
Key Features
Before we delve into values, let's examine the distinguishing features of the 1979 half dollar:
- Obverse (Front): Features a left-facing portrait of John F. Kennedy
- Reverse (Back): Displays a modified presidential seal with an eagle
- Edge: Reeded (ridged)
- Diameter: 30.61 mm
- Weight: 11.34 grams
- Composition: Copper core (79%) with cupronickel cladding (21%)
Mint Marks and Production Numbers
The 1979 half dollar was produced at three U.S. Mint facilities:
- Philadelphia (No Mint Mark): 68,312,000 minted
- Denver (D Mint Mark): 15,815,000 minted
- San Francisco (S Mint Mark): 3,677,175 proof coins minted
The mint mark, when present, can be found on the obverse of the coin, just above the date.
Factors Influencing 1979 Half Dollar Value
Several key factors determine the value of a 1979 half dollar:
- Mint Mark: Coins from different mints may have varying values
- Condition: Better-preserved coins command higher prices
- Rarity: Certain varieties or errors can significantly increase value
- Demand: Collector interest influences market prices
- Metal Content: While not silver, the copper content has intrinsic value
Comprehensive 1979 Half Dollar Value Guide
Let's break down the potential values for 1979 half dollars based on mint mark and condition:
1979 No Mint Mark (Philadelphia)
| Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $1 to $2 |
| MS60 | $5 to $7 |
| MS63 | $8 to $10 |
| MS65 | $18 to $22 |
| MS67 | $350 to $450 |
| MS68 | $3,800 to $4,200 |
1979-D (Denver)
| Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $1 to $5 |
| MS60 | $5 to $7 |
| MS63 | $8 to $12 |
| MS65 | $15 to $20 |
| MS67 | $650 to $750 |
| MS67+ | $3,200 to $3,800 |
1979-S Proof (San Francisco)
Proof coins come in two varieties: Type 1 (filled S) and Type 2 (clear S)
Type 1:
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| PR60 to PR64 | $5 to $7 |
| PR65 to PR67 | $8 to $12 |
| PR68 to PR69 | $15 to $25 |
| PR70 | $45 to $55 |
Type 2:
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| PR60 to PR64 | $11 to $13 |
| PR65 to PR67 | $14 to $18 |
| PR68 to PR69 | $20 to $30 |
| PR70 | $100 to $140 |
Note: These values are based on recent market data and can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Rare 1979 Half Dollar Errors and Varieties
Errors can dramatically increase a coin's value. Some notable 1979 half dollar errors include:
- Double Struck, Double Brockage: A pair of coins with matching errors sold for $4,320 at a 2019 Heritage Auctions sale.
- Off-Center Strike: A coin struck 10% off-center sold for $560 in a 2020 online auction.
- Wrong Planchet Error: A half dollar struck on a Susan B. Anthony dollar planchet sold for $976 in a 2018 Stack's Bowers auction.
- Doubled Die Obverse: While rare, these can sell for $50 to $200 depending on the strength of the doubling.
The Grading System: Key to Valuation
Understanding coin grading is crucial for determining value. The Sheldon Scale, used by professional grading services, ranges from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Uncirculated). Here's a simplified breakdown:
- Poor (P-1) to About Good (AG-3): Heavily worn, date barely visible
- Good (G-4) to Very Good (VG-8): Major design elements visible but worn
- Fine (F-12) to Very Fine (VF-20): All major features clear, moderate wear
- Extremely Fine (EF-40 to EF-45): Light wear on high points, good detail
- About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58): Slight wear, most luster intact
- Mint State (MS-60 to MS-70): No wear, ranging from many marks (MS-60) to flawless (MS-70)
Professional grading services like PCGS and NGC provide expert assessments and protective slabs for valuable coins.
Advanced Collecting Strategies for 1979 Half Dollars
For the serious collector, consider these strategies:
- Complete Set Collection: Aim to acquire high-grade examples from all three mints.
- Error Hunting: Search for rare errors like off-center strikes or doubled dies.
- Proof Set Focus: Collect both Type 1 and Type 2 proof sets, aiming for high grades.
- Toning Specimens: Look for coins with attractive natural toning, which can command premiums.
- First Strike Coins: Some collectors value coins certified as being among the first struck that year.
Preservation Techniques for Maximizing Value
To maintain the value of your coins:
- Handle them by the edges, using cotton gloves if possible
- Store in archival-quality holders or albums with no PVC content
- Maintain a stable environment: 50-55% relative humidity, 65-72°F (18-22°C)
- Never clean your coins – even light cleaning can significantly reduce value
- Consider professional conservation for valuable specimens showing signs of problems like spotting
Market Trends and Future Outlook
While the 1979 half dollar may not be the rarest coin, several factors contribute to its ongoing collectibility:
- Historical Significance: The Kennedy series remains popular due to its connection to a beloved president.
- Copper Content: With each coin containing about 9 grams of copper, there's an intrinsic metal value.
- Condition Rarity: High-grade specimens, particularly MS67 and above, are genuinely scarce.
Based on trends observed over the past decade, we can expect:
- Continued strong demand for top-grade uncirculated coins
- Increasing interest in certified error coins
- Stable to slightly increasing values for average circulated specimens
Conclusion: Is Your 1979 Half Dollar a Hidden Treasure?
While most 1979 half dollars in circulation are worth their face value of 50 cents, the potential for finding a valuable specimen always exists. Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or just curious about that coin in your change jar, the 1979 Kennedy half dollar offers a fascinating glimpse into American coinage history.
Remember, the key to finding value lies in understanding what makes a coin special – its condition, mint mark, and any unique characteristics. By educating yourself and carefully examining your coins, you might just discover a numismatic treasure hiding in plain sight.
So, next time you come across a 1979 half dollar, take a closer look. You never know – it might be worth far more than you think!
