The half dollar is a denomination of US coin that's been around since 1794, making it one of the oldest coins in circulation.
It's worth noting that half dollars were initially minted from silver, but in 1965, the composition changed to a copper-plated coin.
The Kennedy half dollar, which features President John F. Kennedy's likeness, has been minted since 1964 and is one of the most recognizable half dollar designs.
The Kennedy half dollar is made of a copper-clad coin, a composition that's remained the same since its introduction.
A fresh viewpoint: Us Dollar Coin Crypto Price
Types of Coins
There are several types of coins that have been produced in the United States, but today we're focusing on the fifty-cent coin.
The Walking Liberty half dollar, designed by Adolph A. Weinman, is one of the most iconic and beautiful coins in US history.
The Kennedy half dollar, introduced in 1964, features a portrait of President John F. Kennedy on the obverse and a design of the presidential seal on the reverse.
Consider reading: Exchange Rate Japanese Yen
The Kennedy half dollar is still being produced today, although it's not as widely circulated as it once was.
The 1971 S Kennedy half dollar is a highly sought-after coin among collectors due to its low mintage and unique characteristics.
The American Silver Eagle, first minted in 1986, is a fifty-cent coin made of 99.9% silver and features a design of Lady Liberty on the reverse.
These coins are highly prized by collectors and investors alike for their beauty and rarity.
Expand your knowledge: Silver Krugerrand Coin
Half Dollar History
The U.S. Mint made the first half dollar in 1794, and it was made of silver. For more than 150 years, a woman representing liberty was shown on the obverse of the half dollar.
In 1948, an image of Benjamin Franklin replaced the figure of Liberty on the half dollar, but he was never president. Franklin did a lot of work to help shape the country.
The half dollar design switched to honor President John F. Kennedy in 1964, after he died the year before. He has been on the obverse of the half dollar ever since.
Circulation
Half dollars were widely used in circulation until the mid-1960s. They were often used by gamblers at casinos and other venues with slot machines.
In addition to casinos, half dollars were also used by concession vendors at sporting events, who would distribute them as change for convenience. This was especially true for games requiring 50-cent antes or bring-in bets.
The Kennedy half-dollar, introduced in 1964, contained 90% silver. However, the rising price of silver led to the coin's composition being changed in 1965 to a pure copper core sandwiched between two cupronickel outer faces.
The half dollar's usage began to wane by the end of the 1970s, as merchants and businesses lost interest in the coin. This was largely due to the availability of alternative denominations and the increasing use of "coin-less" slot machines.
Here's a list of some of the reasons why half dollars were no longer needed in circulation:
- Casinos switched to using "coin-less" slot machines
- Merchants stopped ordering half dollars from their banks
- Many banks stopped ordering half dollars from the Federal Reserve
- The U.S. mints sharply reduced production of the coins
By 2001, half dollars were minted only for collectors, due to a lack of demand and large quantity returns of halves from casinos. However, in 2021, the mint resumed production of half dollars for general circulation.
Consider reading: Coin Canadian Dollars
Half Dollar History
The first half dollar was made in 1794 and was made of silver. It's amazing to think that this coin was one of the first of its kind.
For over 150 years, a woman representing liberty was shown on the obverse of the half dollar in various poses. The design was a classic representation of freedom and independence.
In 1948, Benjamin Franklin's image replaced the figure of Liberty on the half dollar. Franklin's contributions to the country's growth and development made him a fitting choice for the coin.
Since 2002, the Mint has primarily produced half dollars for collecting purposes. However, you might still find one in your change if you're lucky.
The half dollar design was changed in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, who had passed away the year before. His image has been on the obverse ever since, making him an iconic figure in American coinage.
From 1975 to 1976, the reverse of the half dollar showed Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in celebration of the country's 200th birthday. It's a special design that's steeped in American history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are 1776 to 1976 half dollars worth anything?
Yes, 1776 to 1976 half dollars can be valuable, with circulated coins worth around $4-$5 and uncirculated ones potentially selling for up to $12,500. Their worth depends on condition and market demand.
Does the U.S. still make 50 cent coins?
Yes, the U.S. still mints half dollars, but they are primarily produced for collector sets and not for general circulation. The Federal Reserve may still order them for circulation, but this is not the primary purpose.
What is a rare 50 cent coin?
A rare 50 cent coin is one with a low production run, such as those from 1985 and 1993, which are highly sought after by collectors. These coins can be worth significantly more than their face value, making them a valuable find for numismatists.
Sources
- https://www.moneydigest.com/1672367/highly-coveted-50-cent-coin-1964-kennedy-half-dollar/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Half_dollar_(United_States_coin)
- https://www.govmint.com/us-coins/other-us-coins/half-dollar
- https://kids.usmint.gov/about-the-mint/half-dollar
- https://www.govmint.com/us-coins/other-us-coins/half-dollar
Featured Images: pexels.com
