1965 Kennedy Half Dollar Special Mint Set: A Collectible Coin in High Demand

The 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar is a key part of U.S. coin collecting history. With its unique design and connection to President John F. Kennedy, this coin, especially from the Special Mint Set, remains highly sought after by collectors today. In this guide, we’ll cover the background, design, collecting tips, and market value of this iconic coin.

The Background: A Shift in Coin Production

In the early 1960s, there was a global demand for silver, causing a shortage. This put pressure on the U.S. Mint, which was still using silver in its coins. By 1963, the government was running out of silver, and people began hoarding coins, including the new Kennedy Half Dollar released in 1964. In response to this issue, Congress passed the Coinage Act of 1965, which reduced the amount of silver used in U.S. coins, including the half dollar.

The Introduction of the Special Mint Set

Due to high demand and speculation, the U.S. Mint suspended its regular Proof and Mint Set programs in 1965. Instead, they introduced the Special Mint Set (SMS), which included coins with a unique striking method. These sets were made with a special “Specimen” finish, which was similar to Proof coins but with a slightly different production process. The 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar was one of the coins included in the set, and it was produced in large numbers—over 2 million sets were made.

The Kennedy Half Dollar features a design that was created as a tribute to the late President John F. Kennedy. The obverse (front) shows a portrait of Kennedy, designed by Gilroy Roberts. The reverse (back) displays a heraldic eagle designed by Frank Gasparro. The eagle holds an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing peace and war.

Here’s a quick look at the key design features:

Collecting the 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar Special Mint Set

The 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar Special Mint Set is considered a collectible, but it is not rare. You can often find these coins in their original government packaging for $10 or less, although high-grade specimens can fetch much higher prices. For collectors, the most valuable coins are those with exceptional qualities, such as Cameo or Ultra Cameo contrasts, which appear due to the unique production process used for the Special Mint Sets.

Coins from this set are usually in excellent condition, often graded as “Gem quality.” However, no coin produced for these sets is completely free of minor imperfections, due to the mass production methods.

Grading and Value

The value of a 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar depends heavily on its grade. Coins with higher grades, especially those with a Cameo or Ultra Cameo appearance, have sold for thousands of dollars. For example, a coin graded as MS68 Ultra Cameo can command a price of up to $20,000 at auction. For most collectors, however, these coins are affordable, with typical examples costing around $10-$50.

Here’s a breakdown of recent auction prices for high-grade specimens:

Conclusion

The 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar Special Mint Set is a valuable piece of U.S. coin history. While the coin itself is not rare, its historical connection and unique design make it a sought-after item for many collectors. Whether you’re new to coin collecting or a seasoned enthusiast, the 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar offers an excellent opportunity to own a piece of American history.

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