Uncirculated $9 to $1,233
Proof $31 to $831
The 1964 Kennedy half dollar, with a 90% silver composition that contained less of the precious metal than any 50-cent US piece since the Barber coin of 1892, marked an important event. To lessen the effect of a nationwide silver scarcity and ensure an adequate quantity of dimes and quarters with silver alloy for commerce, President John F. Kennedy approved legislation calling for a decrease in the fineness from 90 percent to 40 percent effective with these denominations that year. Kennedy half dollars have only had copper-nickel-clad, silverless composition since 1971 after this 11-year trial with "clad" coinage at half a silver. Only in proof versions that would end after 1967 in favor of uncirculated "mint state" proof coinage for all series except the American Silver Eagle 1 troy ounce, and its fractional 1/2, 1/4, and 1/10 troy ounce counterparts.
*Values determined by grade
***As of date of publication*