The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is a coin with a special place in history. It was the last of the silver-clad Kennedy half dollars made for circulation and is a favorite among collectors. This coin was only available in the 1970 Mint Sets, catching collectors off-guard as there was little to no public announcement.
By the time people realized this half-dollar was unique, it was too late to order the Mint Sets. The U.S. Mint made just over two million of them, making it the lowest-mintage Kennedy Half until 2006.
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A Quick History of the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
During the 1960s, the U.S. Mint was dealing with a growing demand for coins, thanks to the booming economy and the rise of vending machines. But there was a problem: the price of silver was going up. To keep the economy stable, the U.S. Treasury sold off its silver reserves and eventually decided to stop using as much silver in coins.
In 1964, the Mint began phasing out silver in dimes, quarters, and half dollars. By 1970, the Kennedy Half Dollar was made with only 40% silver instead of the earlier 90%. This was the last time a half dollar would contain any silver at all, making the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar the last of its kind.
Why Collectors Love the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
What makes this coin special isn’t just its silver content. It’s also its rarity and the fact that it was only available in Mint Sets, not in general circulation. Many collectors missed out on the chance to get it directly from the Mint, which added to its value.
Today, the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is a sought-after piece, and the Mint Sets that contain this coin still sell for more than their original issue price. The rarity of these coins has kept their value steady over the years.
What You Need to Know About Its Value
In terms of condition, most 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollars you’ll find are graded between MS62 and MS65, meaning they might have some small marks on them. Coins graded MS66 are in better condition and can sell for around $200-$250. However, finding one in even better condition, like an MS67, is rare and can fetch as much as $7,000!
The silver in the coin makes it softer than later versions made from copper and nickel, which means it’s more likely to have scratches or marks. Even coins in higher grades might show some wear, especially on President Kennedy’s face and the eagle on the reverse side.
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Design Features of the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar
- Obverse (Front): Designed by Gilroy Roberts, the obverse features a profile of President John F. Kennedy. His face is framed by the word “LIBERTY” at the top and the year “1970” at the bottom, with the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” split by his neck.
- Reverse (Back): Designed by Frank Gasparro, the reverse features a heraldic eagle, holding an olive branch in one talon and arrows in the other, symbolizing peace and war. The eagle is surrounded by 50 stars, representing the 50 states of the U.S.
- Edge: The coin’s edge is reeded, like most U.S. coins.
Coin Specifications
- Country: United States
- Mint: Denver (Mintmark: D)
- Mintage: 2,150,000
- Metal Content: 40% Silver, 60% Copper
- Weight: 11.5 grams
- Diameter: 30.6 mm
Final Thoughts
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar isn’t just a coin; it’s a piece of American history. Its unique combination of rarity, silver content, and being the last of its kind makes it a must-have for collectors. Whether you’re looking for a solid addition to your collection or an investment in rare coins, this coin is worth considering.
Ethan is a passionate rare coin collector with years of experience uncovering the stories and history behind unique coins. His insightful articles are a go-to for anyone curious about coin values or their fascinating backstories.