1964 Kennedy Half Melt Value Today
Current melt value: $23.71 per coin
Last updated: 8/11/2026, 4:51:42 AM · Live data
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver) Melt Value Calculator
Prices last updated: 8/11/2026, 4:51:42 AM
Dealers typically pay 80–95% of melt for common silver coins.
| 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver) Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Years Minted | 1964 |
| Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Fineness | 0.9 |
| Total Weight | 12.50 g |
| ASW (Silver Content) | 11.250 g (0.3617 ozt) |
| Face Value | $0.50 |
| Current Melt Value | $23.71 |
How to Identify the Silver Version
Only the 1964-dated Kennedy Half is 90% silver. Look at the date on the obverse — it must read "1964." The edge is reeded. The mintmark is on the reverse, below "HALF DOLLAR": "D" for Denver, no mintmark for Philadelphia. 1965–1970 halves are 40% silver (lighter at 11.5g). Post-1970 halves are clad with a smooth edge.
Key Dates — Do Not Sell for Melt
1964 "Accented Hair" variety (proof and some circulation strikes). The 1964 and 1964-D are common in circulated grades and trade near melt. The SMS (Special Mint Set) 1964 coins carry a premium.
About the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver)
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar was the first and only year the coin was struck in 90% silver for circulation. It was rushed into production following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in November 1963. Designed by Gilroy Roberts (obverse) and Frank Gasparro (reverse), the coin features Kennedy's portrait on the obverse and the Presidential Seal on the reverse.
Each 1964 Kennedy Half contains 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver. The total weight is 12.5 grams at 90% silver and 10% copper — identical to the Franklin Half it replaced. The melt value is the silver content multiplied by the current spot price, shown in the spec table above.
The 1964 Kennedy Half is the only year with 90% silver composition. From 1965 to 1970, the coin was struck in 40% silver (see the 1965–1970 Kennedy Half page). From 1971 onward, Kennedy Halves contain no silver — they are copper-nickel clad. This makes the 1964 issue the most valuable Kennedy Half by melt value.
Because the 1964 Kennedy Half was hoarded by the public as a memorial, many survive in uncirculated condition. However, the 1964 and 1964-D (Denver mintmark) are both common dates that trade near melt value in circulated grades. The 1964 "Accented Hair" variety — where Kennedy's hair has more detail above the ear — carries a small premium in uncirculated grades.
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver) FAQ
What is the melt value of a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar?
The melt value is 0.3617 troy ounces of silver multiplied by the current spot price. Use the calculator on this page for the exact value at today's silver price.
Which Kennedy Halves are 90% silver?
Only the 1964-dated Kennedy Half is 90% silver. The 1964-D (Denver mint) is also 90%. From 1965 to 1970, Kennedy Halves were 40% silver. From 1971 onward, they contain no silver.
How can I tell if my Kennedy Half is silver?
Look at the date. Only 1964 is 90% silver. The 1965–1970 issues are 40% silver and weigh 11.5g (vs. 12.5g for 1964). Post-1970 halves have a smooth edge and no silver. A 90% silver half will have a reeded edge and weigh 12.5 grams.
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