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If you are interested in collecting and numismatics, you have probably heard of the 1970 50C many times. The 1970 silver half dollar is a symbol of a tragic event and a memory of one of the most significant moments in the history of the United States.
The coin was issued to memorialize John F. Kennedy, a president who strived for progress, positivity, and innovation. Let's explore why this unit of currency is so special, and whether it may be attributed to the global foreign coins worth money list.
A Few Words About the History
President John F. Kennedy was tragically murdered in 1963. Soon after this devastating event, it was decided that the government should commemorate the president and issue coins in his honor.
By 1964, engraver Gilroy Roberts developed the design of the coin, featuring a portrait that had already been created before. Interestingly, it had been used by the master earlier for the Orange Bowl Presidential Medal, and after, it was adapted for 50C.
By the way, until 1970, all the coins were made almost entirely of silver, but inflation and the increase in the cost of metal, unfortunately, affected the value of 1970 Kennedy half dollar. This is why the 1970 issue was the last to contain 40% silver in the alloy and the first to be released only for special collector mint sets and proof sets and not for circulation purposes.
Design and Characteristics of the Сoin
Obverse and Reverse
The obverse of the coin depicts the profile of President John F. Kennedy. The words “LIBERTY” are engraved around the portrait with the inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST” resting underneath. The minting year “1970” is located below Kennedy's neck.
The reverse includes the image of a white eagle with spread wings, an olive branch in its right paw, and a bundle of 13 arrows to its left. The eagle also holds a scroll in its beak with the inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM”, “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” at the top, and “HALF DOLLAR” at the bottom.
Main Characteristics
Denomination: 50 cents.
Metal: 40% silver, 60% copper (this is the last year that Kennedy 50C coins contain silver).
Weight: 11.5 grams.
Diameter: 30.6 mm.
Thickness: 2.15 mm.
Edge: fluted (150 notches).
If you wonder “What is the difference between the 1970 D Kennedy half dollar and 1970 S Kennedy half dollar”, please be informed that the answer lies in the name of the mint.
What Do the Letters S, D, and P Mean?
The hero of the article was minted at two mints, with each granting its own distinctive mark, i.e., a small letter on the obverse.
“S” – San Francisco: These coins were minted as Proof, meaning top quality minted with a mirror finish.
"D" – Denver: These were issued in regular quality but were exclusively intended for collector sets and never released into circulation.
There were no “P” (Philadelphia) coins in 1970, as these numismatic creations were not minted at the Philadelphia Mint at all.
Investment Potential
The 1970 Kennedy Half Dollar can be considered a collector's item with some investment potential, though it is far from being one of the world’s oldest coins. Below you can find a few reasons why this coin may be attractive to investors.
Historical Significance
This coin is associated with the memorable event of Kennedy's death and his legacy.
Limited Issue
As we mentioned earlier, these coins were not released for circulation. The mintage for mint sets in Denver was 2,150,000 and for proof sets in San Francisco was 2,632,810 only.
Minting Quality and Silver Content
The proof coins from San Francisco are considered to be of exceptional quality and are highly valued among collectors, for the silver content of the coin also makes it interesting for those who invest in precious metals.
Growing Collector Interest
Over time, the rarity and demand for these coins increase, making them an excellent long-term asset.
How Much Is a 1970 Half Dollar Worth?
1970 half dollar value varies greatly depending on condition and type. The approximate value of the coin may vary as follows:
Proof Coins (San Francisco): $20-50
Ordinary Coins (Denver): $15-30
Perfect condition: $1,000+
If you have unidentified coins in your collection or coins you would like to know more about, try the modern Coin ID Scanner application for free coin identification. With its help, you can easily learn more about the main characteristics and approximate value of the item, as well as store, manage, and organize information about your collection. Try it now to make your hobby technological and organized.
Where Can You Purchase the Kennedy Half Dollar 1970?
If you are interested in purchasing this instance, you can appeal to auction houses such as Heritage Auctions, platforms for online shopping like eBay and Amazon, and specialized numismatic stores that offer a wide range of coins for collectors.
The 1970 half dollar is a unique symbol of a transitional period in the history of American coins. All the characteristics and features of the coin along with the silver content and historical background make the Kennedy half dollar very attractive to collectors and numismatists alike.
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