The 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar is a fascinating piece in U.S. coin history, cherished by collectors for its design and the legacy it represents. This guide will walk you through what makes the 1978 half dollar unique, the different mint varieties, and the current market value for each type. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about coins, knowing the value of this piece can be quite rewarding.
What Is a 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar Made Of?
The Kennedy Half Dollar series began in 1964, created as a tribute to the late President John F. Kennedy. From 1965 to 1970, the half dollar was made with 40% silver and 60% copper, but by 1971, the U.S. Mint shifted to using a copper-nickel composition without silver. This change was partly due to the rising cost of silver and to ensure that these coins remained accessible for circulation.
The design features a bust of President Kennedy on the obverse (front side) of the coin, crafted by Gilroy Roberts, an accomplished sculptor and Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint at the time. On the reverse side, you’ll find the presidential seal, designed by Frank Gasparro. Together, these elements make the Kennedy Half Dollar a lasting tribute to one of the nation’s most beloved presidents.
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Is the 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar Made of Silver?
Despite the original silver composition of early Kennedy half dollars, the 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar does not contain silver. It’s made entirely of copper and nickel, as was typical for half dollars minted after 1970. This means that the intrinsic value of the 1978 half dollar is based more on its collectibility than on precious metal content. However, certain varieties and mint locations can affect the coin’s market value among collectors.
1978 Half Dollar Varieties and Mint Marks
Three main mints produced the 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar, each with unique characteristics and varying levels of value:
1. Philadelphia Mint (No Mint Mark)
The Philadelphia Mint produced about 14,350,000 half-dollar coins in 1978, and these coins are relatively common. If you own a 1978 Kennedy half dollar without a mint mark, it’s most likely from Philadelphia. In terms of value, these coins typically sell for around $0.50 to $2.50, depending on their condition.
2. Denver Mint (Mint Mark: D)
Coins from the Denver Mint are identified by a small “D” mark on the obverse side. The Denver Mint struck approximately 13,765,000 half-dollar coins in 1978. Denver-minted coins often hold a slightly higher value than those from Philadelphia. Depending on the coin’s condition, a 1978 D Kennedy half dollar can be worth around $4.50, especially in higher grades of preservation.
3. San Francisco Mint (Mint Mark: S – Proof)
The San Francisco Mint produced proof versions of the 1978 Kennedy half dollar. These proof coins are generally of a much higher quality, as they are polished and designed to have a mirror-like finish, making them highly appealing to collectors.
The San Francisco Mint only created around 3,127,000 of these proof coins, which are generally more valuable due to their scarcity. On average, a 1978 S Kennedy half dollar in proof condition sells for around $0.50 to $7.00.
How Much Is a 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar Worth Today?
The value of a 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar depends largely on the mint mark and condition. Here’s a quick breakdown of the current value range:
- Philadelphia Mint (No Mint Mark): $0.50 to $2.50
- Denver Mint (D): $0.50 to $4.50, depending on condition
- San Francisco Mint (S – Proof): $0.50 to $7.00, with higher values for proof coins in excellent condition
While circulated coins typically fall at the lower end of this range, uncirculated or proof-quality coins can be worth significantly more. Coins with very little wear or pristine mirror finishes attract higher prices, especially among collectors seeking rare or high-quality pieces.
Factors That Affect the Value of a 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar
- Condition: Coins in mint condition or with minimal wear are worth more. Coins graded as “MS” (Mint State) or proof coins in excellent condition tend to attract higher prices.
- Mint Mark: Coins from the San Francisco Mint (with the “S” mark) often hold more value due to their proof quality and scarcity.
- Rarity: Though not considered rare, 1978 half dollars from the San Francisco Mint are less common than those from Philadelphia and Denver, contributing to their higher market value.
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Conclusion
The 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar is a meaningful piece of U.S. history and a favorite among collectors. While its value may not be as high as silver coins from earlier years, it holds significant collectible value, especially proof versions from the San Francisco Mint. Checking for mint marks and ensuring the condition of your coin can help you get the most out of your 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar.
Whether you’re starting a collection or just looking to understand the value of this iconic coin, knowing these factors will help you make an informed decision. Happy collecting!