Illustrated Specimen Details: 1/2 Dollar (USA)
Example Specimen: 1/2 dollar, 1964 (USA)
Design & Heraldry: This silver 1/2 dollar coin, known among numismatists as the "Kennedy Half Dollar", was issued to commemorate John Fitzgerald Kennedy, the 35th president of the United States (1917-1963). The obverse features a portrait by sculptor Gilroy Roberts, with the stylized monogram "GR" beneath it. It also bears the official motto "IN GOD WE TRUST". The reverse displays the official seal of the U.S. presidency, featuring a bald eagle surrounded by 50 stars representing the 50 states of the USA. The reverse design was created by Frank Gasparro, whose initials "FG" appear directly below the eagle.
Denomination: Half dollar or 1/2 dollar (50 cents)
Date: 1964
Metal: Silver (0.900)
Mintage: 277,254,766
Weight: 12.43 g | Diameter: 30 mm
Mint: Philadelphia Mint
Estimated value: 13$
DENOMINATION GUIDE — WHERE & WHEN (world coins catalog: by names and emitents)
Origin and role of the denomination. The 1/2 dollar coin is one of the principal denominations of the United States monetary system. Its name is purely descriptive, reflecting its value as one-half of a dollar. Today, it remains legal tender, though it is rarely encountered in daily commerce, being produced mostly for numismatists and casino use.
Historical Background and Evolution
The 1/2 dollar was authorized by the Coinage Act of 1792, which established the decimal system for the United States. The first coins were minted in 1794, making it one of the oldest denominations in continuous production. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, it was a vital coin in trade, often circulating more extensively than the dollar coin.
Evolution of Design
Less than 2 decades after the declaration of independence, silver coins appeared with the edge inscription "Fifty cents or half a dollar". Later, the denomination was indicated as "1/2", "50 c", and "50 cents". In 1838, the wording changed: until 1892, the coin was marked "HALF DOL.", and eventually transformed into the standard "HALF DOLLAR".
The bald eagle has remained the primary heraldic motif for most issues. Famous historical designs include the "Draped Bust", "Liberty Seated", "Walking Liberty" (1916-1947), and "Franklin Half Dollar" (1948-1963).
Changes in Composition and the Kennedy Era
Until 1964, the 1/2 dollar was minted in 90% pure silver. From 1965-1970, the silver content was reduced to 40%. Since 1971, the 1/2 dollar has been produced as a copper-nickel coin (weighing over 11 g). Occasionally, special silver versions are produced for collectors, and since 2014, gold versions have also been issued.
Following the assassination of John F. Kennedy, the design was updated rapidly. The "Kennedy Half Dollar" was released in 1964. These coins are highly valued by collectors, as the 1964 issue was the final one for general circulation struck in 90% silver.