Half Dollars

Half Dollar Coins for Sale

The Half Dollar coin holds a special place in American numismatic history. Half dollars trace their origins back to the Coinage Act of 1792, with the first pieces minted in 1794. Over the centuries, these 50-cent coins have showcased designs that reflect America’s evolving history, artistic style, and cultural values. From the early Flowing Hair Half Dollar to the beloved Kennedy Half Dollar, the series offers collectors a journey through more than two centuries of U.S. history.

Whether you’re passionate about U.S. history, stacking silver, or simply expanding your collection, Half Dollar coins provide both affordability and variety unmatched by many other series. Collectors often branch into related series such as the Eisenhower Silver Dollar, Morgan Dollar, and Peace Dollar, each with its own unique story.

History and the Evolution of the Half Dollar Coin (1794 – Present)

The Half Dollar United States coin has one of the longest-running design histories, evolving alongside the nation itself. Each era showcases the artistry of America’s most influential engravers and reflects the culture of its time.

Flowing Hair Half Dollar (1794 –1795)

The very first Half Dollar, designed by Robert Scot and engraved by John Eckstein, depicted Liberty with flowing hair on the obverse and a small eagle on the reverse. These early issues had very low mintages, making them rare and highly prized.

Draped Bust Half Dollar (1796 –1807)

The Draped Bust design, also by Robert Scot, refined Liberty’s portrait and added heraldic symbolism to the reverse in later years. With limited production runs, these coins are among the rarest in the entire series.

Capped Bust Half Dollar (1807 –1839)

Engraved by John Reich, the Capped Bust series introduced a bolder Liberty wearing a cap. The reverse featured a powerful eagle clutching arrows and olive branches, symbolizing war and peace. With decades of minting, this design includes multiple varieties that keep collectors engaged.

Seated Liberty Half Dollar (1839 –1891)

The Seated Liberty design, crafted by engraver Christian Gobrecht, shows Liberty sitting with a shield beside her, a powerful emblem of the country’s defense and independence. During its production, the coin went through several changes that included arrows, rays, and different motto inscriptions to reflect the evolving era.

Barber Half Dollar (1892 –1915)

Charles E. Barber crafted a distinctive half dollar that depicted Liberty adorned with a laurel wreath and the traditional Phrygian cap, blending classical symbolism with American ideals. While often criticized for its conservative style, the Barber Half Dollar played an important role in commerce. Key dates such as 1892-S, 1896-O, and 1901-S are highly sought after.

Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916 –1947)

Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, the Walking Liberty Half Dollar is often hailed as America’s most beautiful coin. Liberty strides toward the rising sun, draped in the American flag, with laurel and oak branches in hand. The reverse showcases a bold eagle on a rocky perch. Struck during WWI, the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and WWII, these coins connect to pivotal moments in American history. The design later inspired the modern American Silver Eagle.

Franklin Half Dollar (1948 –1963)

Designed by John R. Sinnock, the Franklin Half Dollar honored Benjamin Franklin with his portrait on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse. Collectors appreciate this short-lived series for its affordability and distinctly American symbolism.

Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 – present)

The Kennedy Half Dollar, introduced in 1964, was designed by Gilroy Roberts for the obverse and Frank Gasparro for the reverse. Issued shortly after President Kennedy’s assassination, it became both a tribute and a national symbol of remembrance. The inaugural issue was struck in 90% silver, followed by 40% silver from 1965–1970, before transitioning to copper-nickel clad in 1971.

Special issues include the 1976 Bicentennial Half Dollar, featuring Independence Hall, and modern proof editions struck at San Francisco. Since 2002, Kennedy Half Dollars have been produced primarily for collectors rather than general circulation.

Types of Half Dollar Coins

Uncirculated Half Dollars

These coins were minted for collectors and not intended for circulation. They retain sharp details and often come in original Mint packaging.

Proof Half Dollars

Proofs showcase the highest-quality strikes, with frosted devices and mirror-like fields. Proof Kennedy Half Dollars remain popular for their brilliance and artistry.

Silver Half Dollars

Silver was a defining feature of early Half Dollars. Walking Liberty and Franklin Half Dollars were struck in 90% silver, while Kennedy issues from 1965–1970 contain 40% silver. Collectors often compare these with other classics like the Morgan Silver Dollar and Peace Dollar.

Modern Clad Half Dollars

Since 1971, circulating Half Dollars have been struck in copper-nickel clad. While rarely seen in daily commerce, they remain available in Mint and Proof sets.

Half Dollar Coin Values & Key Dates

The value of a Half Dollar depends on year, mint mark, composition, and condition. Some of the most notable examples include:

For collectors seeking detailed price ranges, resources like our US Coin Value Guide provide updated insights.

Reason to Buy Half Dollars from CSN Mint?

At CSN Mint, you can build your collection with confidence. We provide:

• Authentic U.S. Mint Half Dollars across all major series
• Options in uncirculated, proof, and silver varieties
• Competitive pricing with expert guidance
• Secure and fast U.S. shipping
• Professional support for beginners and seasoned collectors

Collectors who enjoy Half Dollars often branch into related silver coin series such as the Eisenhower Silver Dollar, Morgan Dollar, or Peace Dollar, each offering its own unique legacy.

FAQs About Half Dollars

1. What is a Half Dollar coin worth?

Most modern clad Half Dollars are worth face value, while silver issues (1964–1970) and earlier designs hold higher collectible value.

2. Are Half Dollars still made today?

Yes. The Kennedy Half Dollar is still produced, though mainly for collectors rather than general circulation.

3. How can I tell if my Half Dollar contains silver?

Check the date: 1964 issues are 90% silver, while 1965 –1970 issues contain 40% silver. Modern clad issues (1971–present) have no silver content.

4. Which Half Dollar is the rarest?

Early types like the 1796–1797 Draped Bust Half Dollar and key-date Walking Liberty issues are among the rarest.

5. Why did the U.S. Mint stop circulating Half Dollars widely?

Their large size made them unpopular in daily commerce, leading to reduced circulation after the 1970s.

6. What is special about the 1976 Bicentennial Half Dollar?

It features a special Independence Hall reverse and was issued in both clad and 40% silver formats.

7. Are Proof Half Dollars worth more?

Yes, proof coins often carry a premium due to their superior strike and limited mintages.

8. Can Half Dollars be found in circulation today?

It’s rare, but occasional Kennedy Half Dollars still surface in bank rolls or change.

9. How do I store Half Dollar coins safely?

Use acid-free holders, coin flips, or certified slabs to protect against tarnish and damage.

10. What grading system is used for Half Dollars?

Like most U.S. coins, Half Dollars are graded on the Sheldon Scale (1–70) by services like PCGS and NGC.