The United States minted Kennedy half dollars composed of 90% silver in 1964, the year following President Kennedy’s assassination. The silver content was subsequently reduced to 40% for coins produced between 1965 and 1970. These years represent the specific period when the circulated half-dollar coins contained a significant amount of the precious metal.
Understanding the years of silver composition is important for coin collectors and investors because the intrinsic value of these coins is tied to the fluctuating price of silver. The presence of silver significantly increases the worth of these coins beyond their face value, making them desirable assets. This era reflects a transition in U.S. coinage away from precious metal content due to rising silver prices and increased demand.
