Hello all, This past fall I found an 1857 Canadian Half Cent token while doing some yard work and that sparked a bit of interest in the history and stories tied to older coins like that...I then started looking into coinage from eras that I am otherwise historically interested in...this, in turn, reminded me of a variety of coins I inherited a couple years back. Most of these consist of Kennedy half dollars, along with some Franklins, and I'm curious as to which might be more collectible than others. After some research, I believe I have several Kennedys that are of the 90% silver variety, and would like to better understand what I have. Looking at the attached, are any worth further investigation? Any thoughts are much appreciated.
The 1964's and the 2 Franklin's are 90% silver and basically melt value. $6+. The 1976 is worth 50 cents. The other Kennedy's are 40% silver and worth around $2.50. The most interesting coin I don't see pictured. An 1857 Canadian 1/2 cent token.
To me, they are all "junk silver", and I don't meant that in any derogatory way. It's what many people call circulated and dirty 90% & 40% silver US coins. I personally love junk silver, and try to buy some each coin show I go to, so I dont come away empty handed a these small Maine coin shows. I would not have those coins graded, but they have value as silver, and personally I would keep them, and hoard more. I keep mine in a cool leather pouch and add any finds and purchases here. Best thing is, you dont need to be delicate with them.
That's hilarious...I'll post that one up later tonight. Thanks for the info on the others...is there any collectible or historical value in any kind of set of the Kennedy half dollars? I have about 30 from all different years and mints.
I don't think you realize how many different dates, mintmarks and finishes there are that have been produced in the 57-year existence of the Kennedy half dollar. ~ Chris
I most definitely don't, hence the question. I'll separate the silver from the others and keep for myself.
Unless there is some special variety or super high grade, these were produced in very high numbers and are basically worth silver value in most cases. Most of the non silver ones (1971-2001) are worth 50 cents. (Proofs, varieties, errors will have more value.) Since 2002 the coins are produced NIFC not intended for circulation. With most of the mintages in the 3 million range. There could be a slight premium for these, but the market is soft. If you have a 50 cent piece that is worth 60 cents, are you going to do all the work of looking for a buyer? You end up better off spending it, or just saving it.
Regarding the Kennedy Halves: Unlikely you have one, but keep in eye out the the 1998 Matte special proof. They look very different from both proofs and circulation strikes. I would not keep the clad coins, unless you have them in high mint-state. Sounds like you are already planning that.