The 1971 Kennedy Half Dollar is one of the most common half dollars in circulation, but some rare varieties can be worth thousands of dollars. Many people assume all half dollars contain silver, but starting in 1971, the U.S. Mint completely removed silver from these coins.
Even though most 1971 half dollars are only worth their face value, some high-grade coins and error varieties can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars at auctions.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover:
- The history behind the 1971 Kennedy Half Dollar
- How to identify valuable 1971 half dollars
- Rare errors that can make your coin valuable
- The best places to sell your 1971 half dollar
- Expert tips on grading and collecting
If you have a half dollar from 1971, keep reading to find out if it’s worth more than just 50 cents!
History of the 1971 Kennedy Half Dollar
The Kennedy Half Dollar series was introduced in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in November 1963. The coin was an instant hit, and millions of Americans saved these coins instead of spending them.
From 1964 to 1970, Kennedy half dollars contained silver:
- 1964 Half Dollars: 90% silver
- 1965-1970 Half Dollars: 40% silver
- 1971-Present Half Dollars: Copper-nickel (no silver)
By 1971, silver prices had risen sharply, and the U.S. Mint decided to remove silver from circulating half dollars. This marked the beginning of the copper-nickel era, which continues today.
Because of this, the half dollar coin value 1971 is usually based on collectibility rather than silver content. However, some rare error coins were mistakenly struck on leftover silver planchets, making them highly valuable.
How to Identify a 1971 Half Dollar?
Before determining the value of a 1971 half dollar coin, it’s important to identify key features.
- Obverse (Front):
- Features a portrait of John F. Kennedy
- Designed by Gilroy Roberts
- Date “1971” appears below Kennedy’s neck
- Reverse (Back):
- Shows the Presidential Seal, with an eagle holding arrows and an olive branch
- Designed by Frank Gasparro
- Inscription: “United States of America – Half Dollar“
- Material & Weight:
- Made of 75% copper and 25% nickel, with a pure copper core
- Weighs 11.34 grams
- Mint Marks:
- No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint)
- D mint mark (Denver Mint)
- S mint mark (San Francisco Mint – Proof Coins)
Checking these details will help determine if your 1971 half dollar is common or potentially valuable.
1971 Half Dollar Coin Value – How Much Is It Worth?
The value of a 1971 half dollar coin depends on condition, rarity, and any minting errors.
Circulated 1971 Half Dollar Value
Most 1971 half dollars found in pocket change are only worth face value ($0.50). This is because millions were produced, and they don’t contain silver.
Uncirculated 1971 Half Dollar Value
If your coin is shiny and has no wear, it might be uncirculated, making it more valuable:
- Mint State (MS-60 to MS-65): Worth $3 – $15
- Mint State (MS-67 or higher): Can be worth $1,000 or more
1971-S Proof Half Dollar Value
San Francisco minted special proof versions for collectors. These have a mirror-like finish and are worth more:
- Proof (PR-65): $8 – $40
- Deep Cameo Proofs: Up to $100+
If your coin looks shiny with a frosted design and mirror background, it could be a valuable proof coin.
Rare 1971 Half Dollar Errors and Their Value
Some 1971 half dollars contain minting errors, making them extremely valuable. Let’s explore the most valuable ones:
1. 1971 Half Dollar Struck on a 40% Silver Planchet
Some 1971 Kennedy half dollars were accidentally struck on leftover 40% silver planchets from 1970. These are extremely rare and can be worth:
- $3,500 – $10,000 depending on condition
To check if your coin is silver:
- Weigh it: A normal 1971 half dollar weighs 11.34 grams. A 40% silver error weighs 11.5+ grams.
- Sound test: Silver coins make a high-pitched ringing sound when tapped.
2. 1971-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
Some 1971-D half dollars have a doubled image on Kennedy’s face and lettering. These are valuable and can be worth:
- $50 – $1,000, depending on condition.
3. Off-Center Strikes
If the coin’s design is not centered, it’s an error and can be worth:
- $50 – $500, depending on how off-center it is.
4. Clipped Planchet Error
If part of the coin’s edge looks cut off, it’s a minting mistake. These can sell for:
- $50 – $300.
Checking your 1971 half dollar for errors could mean the difference between 50 cents and thousands of dollars!
Where to Sell a 1971 Half Dollar for the Best Price?
If you have a valuable 1971 half dollar, here’s where to sell it:
1. eBay – Great for auctioning rare coins
2. Local Coin Shops – Quick cash, but may offer lower prices
3. Auction Houses (Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers) – Best for high-value coins
4. Coin Shows – Good for meeting collectors in person
5. Online Coin Dealers (APMEX, PCGS, NGC) – Trusted platforms
If your coin has errors or is in high-grade condition, consider getting it graded by PCGS or NGC before selling for maximum value.
conclusion:
The 1971 half dollar is a fun coin to collect, even if most are only worth 50 cents. But some rare ones, like error coins or high-grade versions, can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars! If you have a 1971 half dollar, check its condition, mint mark, and weight to see if it’s valuable. Coins with shiny, uncirculated surfaces or special errors are the ones collectors love the most.
If you think your coin is rare, don’t spend it! Instead, take it to a coin expert or sell it online for the best price. Some lucky people have found 1971 silver planchet errors worth thousands of dollars! Even if yours isn’t super valuable, it’s still a cool piece of American history. So, keep looking—you never know when you might find a hidden treasure!
FAQs:
Q: How much is a 1971 half dollar worth?
A: Most 1971 half dollars are worth 50 cents, but uncirculated coins and error varieties can be worth $100 or more. Rare silver planchet errors can sell for thousands of dollars.
Q: Does the 1971 half dollar contain silver?
A: No, regular 1971 half dollars are made of copper-nickel, not silver. However, a few rare error coins were mistakenly struck on 40% silver planchets.
Q: What is the most valuable 1971 half dollar?
A: The most valuable 1971 half dollar is the silver planchet error, which has sold for over $10,000 at auctions. High-grade MS-67 or higher coins can also be worth hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Q: How can I tell if my 1971 half dollar is silver?
A: Weigh your coin on a digital scale. A normal 1971 half dollar weighs 11.34 grams, while a silver planchet error will weigh around 11.5 grams.
Q: Where can I sell a 1971 half dollar?
A: You can sell it at coin shops, online marketplaces like eBay, auction houses, or coin grading services like PCGS or NGC for professional evaluation.
Q: Are proof 1971 half dollars worth more?
A: Yes! The 1971-S proof half dollar is worth $5 to $80, depending on its condition and whether it has a deep cameo finish.