Unlocking the Value of 1978 Kennedy Half Dollars

The Kennedy Half Dollar was released in 1964 for issuance in memory of the late President John F. Kennedy. All such coins are collected and studied by numismatists not only for historical purposes but also for their potential investment value. In this case, what makes the 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar year interesting to collectors is its post-silver era date associated with the changing economy at that time. It is in this regard that the summary of the 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar, its background information, key features, and its current market value are presented.

Historical Background

First minted in 1964, shortly after President Kennedy’s 1963 assassination, the Kennedy Half Dollar Was originally composed of 90% silver, the coin was changed to copper-nickel clad in 1971. Even though it had already seen a decline in circulation use because of the rise of inflation and the reducing half dollar purchasing power, by 1978 the coin had become well established in American currency.

Important Features

Opposite:

• The obverse of the 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar, designed by Gilroy Roberts, depicts John F. Kennedy.
  
• The inscription ” LIBERTY” is arced around Kennedy’s head and runs under “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
  
• At bottom, the year “1978.”

reverse:

• Frank Gasparro’s reverse, intended for the Presidential Seal, looks opposite.
  
• An eagle with a shield on its chest holds arrows and an olive branch.
  
• A flock of 13 stars ascends the eagle’s head with a banner bearing “E PLuribus UNUM.”
  
• The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DOLLAR” ring the design.

Mint References

The Kennedy Half Dollar struck in 1978 had three sites, viz.: Philadelphia with no mint mark, Denver with the mint mark “D,” and San Francisco with the mint mark “S”. Only proof sets were made in San Francisco minted coins, bearing a “S” mint mark.

Forms and Mistakes

Variations and flaws are a major determinant of the value that a collector will attain from a 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar. To this end, the collectors should be aware of any major variations and flaws associated with the coin. Although there are no significant variants associated with the year, small problems such as die fractures or planchet defects that expert analysts may find would be of interest.

Testing

The value of a 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar is largely based on the condition of the coin. Coin grading determines their value. Most common would be the Sheldon Scale, which grades from 1, Poor, to 70, Perfect. Key grades for these coins are as follows: Good (G-4): Heavily weathered with the key details flattened; Fine (F-12) with moderate wear, major details clear; Extremely Fine (EF-40): All details sharp, with light wear on the high points.
Mint State (MS-60 to MS-70): No wear, with varied degrees of shine and strike quality.
Values of the Current Market
The market value of Kennedy Half Dollar alters on the basis of its condition and mint mark in 2024.

Here is a general guide:

• These coins often come in circulated condition; they usually trade for their face value or a little more.
  
• Denver and Philadelphia: $0.50 to $1.00
  
• Coins in mint state condition might fetch more value.
  
• MS-60 through MS-63 $2.00 to $5.00
  
• MS-66 and above: $20.00 and forward
  
• Evidence coins: Proof coins made by San Francisco-minted value more, particularly those in original packaging.
  
• $10.00 to $20.00 PR-65 through PR-67
  
• Higher PR-68: $25.00 and more
  

Prospect for Investments

• While this 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar is made without silver and is generally not considered a high-value currency in circulated condition, it does show some potential for investment in uncirculated and proof form. Mistake coins and high-grade examples are necessary if collectors hope to achieve the highest returns on their investment.
• Since the 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar is affiliated with a major historical person and holds a place in American numismatic history, it will always remain a highly sought-after collector. Knowing the subtleties of these coins will be very important for anyone at any experience level in developing a quality collection and gaining possible financial benefits associated with it. While considering a coin, always remember that market demand has to be viewed in relation to its quality and rarity.