Are all Kennedy half dollars silver? This is a question that often arises among collectors and enthusiasts of this iconic American coin. The Kennedy half dollar, introduced in 1964, has held a special place in the hearts of many due to its unique design and historical significance. However, the answer to this question is not as straightforward as one might think.
The Kennedy half dollar was initially struck in 90% silver, which means that the coin contained a significant amount of pure silver. This was a common practice for American coins at the time, as silver was abundant and considered a valuable metal. However, due to the rising cost of silver and the need to reduce the coin’s weight, the composition of the Kennedy half dollar was changed in 1965.
From 1965 to 1970, the Kennedy half dollar was still struck in 90% silver, but the weight was reduced from 12.5 grams to 11.5 grams. This change was made to prevent the coins from becoming too valuable due to the silver content, which could have led to widespread hoarding and a shortage of coins in circulation.
However, the composition of the Kennedy half dollar changed again in 1971. The United States government decided to cease striking coins containing silver, as the price of silver had continued to rise and was becoming too costly for the government to use. From 1971 onward, the Kennedy half dollar was struck in a clad composition, which is a combination of copper and nickel.
So, to answer the question, “Are all Kennedy half dollars silver?” the answer is no. While the first series of Kennedy half dollars (1964-1969) contained 90% silver, the later series (1971 onwards) are not silver coins. This distinction is important for collectors, as the value of the silver content can significantly affect the worth of the coin.
Collectors often seek out the silver Kennedy half dollars, as they are considered more valuable and are often sought after for their historical significance and the rarity of the silver content. These coins can be worth much more than their face value, depending on the condition and the year of issue.
In conclusion, while not all Kennedy half dollars are silver, the early series from 1964 to 1969 are highly sought after by collectors for their silver content. Understanding the composition and history of the Kennedy half dollar can help collectors appreciate the differences between the various series and make informed decisions when building their collections.
