The Kennedy Half Dollar, introduced in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, has become a staple in American coinage.
While most of these coins are common, certain minting errors have transformed ordinary coins into valuable collectibles.
One such error, a 1971-D Kennedy Half Dollar struck on a silver planchet, fetched an astonishing $13,000 at auction.
The 1971-D Kennedy Half Dollar Error
In 1971, the U.S. Mint transitioned from using 40% silver planchets to a copper-nickel composition for half dollars.
However, a few silver planchets remained in the minting machinery, leading to the accidental creation of 1971-D half dollars with the outdated silver composition.
These error coins are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Key Details of the Error Coin
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year and Mint Mark | 1971-D |
| Composition | 40% Silver (error) |
| Weight | Approximately 11.5 grams |
| Grading | NGC MS61 |
| Auction Price | $13,000 |
| Auction Platform | eBay |
| Auction Date | April 2018 |
Why This Error is Valuable
The value of this error coin stems from several factors:
- Rarity: Very few 1971-D half dollars were mistakenly struck on silver planchets.
- Historical Significance: The coin represents a transitional error during a significant change in U.S. coinage.
- Collector Demand: Error coins, especially those with such clear deviations, are highly prized in the numismatic community.
Other Notable Kennedy Half Dollar Errors
| Error Type | Description | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1964 Accented Hair Proof | Features more pronounced hair details above Kennedy’s ear. | $35 – $55 |
| 1972-D No FG | Missing designer’s initials on the reverse due to die polishing. | $5 – $10 |
| 1974-D Doubled Die Obverse | Doubling visible on the obverse lettering. | $25 – $75 |
| 1977-D Off-Center Strike | Design struck off-center, leading to partial images. | $995 |
| 1983-P Struck Through Grease | Parts of the design missing due to grease on the die. | $7.99 |
The story of the 1971-D Kennedy Half Dollar struck on a silver planchet exemplifies how a simple minting error can lead to a coin worth thousands.
Collectors and enthusiasts should remain vigilant, as hidden treasures might be lurking in their collections or even in everyday pocket change.
FAQs
How can I identify if my Kennedy Half Dollar is an error coin?
Examine the coin for anomalies such as missing details, doubled images, or unusual compositions. Using a magnifying glass and comparing with standard coins can help.
Are all error coins valuable?
Not necessarily. The value depends on the rarity, demand, and significance of the error.
Where can I sell a valuable error coin?
Reputable auction houses, coin dealers, and online platforms like eBay are common places to sell rare coins.