Most people don’t give much thought to the coins in their pockets. But if you happen to come across a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, you may want to take a closer look. A rare version of this coin—known as the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar—could be worth tens of thousands of dollars.
While millions of Kennedy half dollars were produced in 1964, only a few SMS (Special Mint Set) versions exist. These rare coins are highly prized by collectors and have sold for up to $150,000 at auction. And yes, a few could still be hiding in circulation.
What Is the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar?
“SMS” stands for Special Mint Set, a type of collector-grade coin with a unique finish and high-quality strike. SMS coins were officially produced from 1965 to 1967—but a small number of experimental 1964 SMS Kennedy half dollars have surfaced over the years.
These coins are believed to be prototype or test strikes, possibly created under the direction of then-Mint Director Eva Adams and Chief Engraver Gilroy Roberts. Fewer than 20 verified examples are known to exist today, making this one of the rarest modern U.S. coins.
Why the 1964 SMS Half Dollar Is So Valuable
Rarity is the main driver of value. With fewer than 20 known to exist, these coins are virtually unknown to the public. That exclusivity has led to huge prices at auction—ranging from $45,000 to $150,000, depending on the condition and grading.
Adding to the coin’s appeal is its mysterious origin. These aren’t ordinary collector items—they’re linked to a very specific and historic period of minting experimentation. That legacy enhances their desirability among high-end numismatists.
How to Identify a 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
If you think you’ve found a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar worth investigating, look for the following features:
1. Satin-Like Matte Finish
The SMS version has a smooth, satin-like surface that differs from both mirror-proof and standard business strike coins.
2. Sharp Details
Examine the hairlines in Kennedy’s portrait and the feathers on the eagle’s wings. The SMS coins are struck with high precision and exhibit crisp, well-defined design elements.
3. No Mint Mark
Like regular 1964 coins minted in Philadelphia, SMS versions have no mint mark. However, a missing mint mark alone does not confirm SMS status—it must be paired with other features.
4. Smooth Edges and Clean Fields
The rim and background of the coin (fields) should be very smooth, with minimal contact marks—a signature trait of SMS coins.
5. Professional Certification Required
To positively identify this rare coin, you’ll need grading and authentication from experts like PCGS or NGC. These organizations have confirmed all known SMS specimens to date.
Real Auction Examples
The value of these coins is no exaggeration. Here are just a few examples of past sales:
- An NGC SP68-graded 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar sold for $108,000.
- A slightly lower-graded example fetched $47,000.
With such limited supply, any newly discovered specimen could set a record.
Could One Be Hiding in Your Collection?
Although these coins are extremely rare, they’ve been found in some surprising places—including:
- Old estate collections
- Dealer inventory mistaken for standard coins
- Personal coin jars passed down for generations
That means it’s not impossible for one to still be in circulation or tucked away unnoticed in someone’s home.
What to Do If You Find One
If you believe you have a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar that fits the SMS profile, here’s what to do:
- Do not clean or polish the coin—this can lower its value.
- Handle it by the edges to avoid fingerprints and damage.
- Place it in a protective holder like a coin flip or capsule.
- Contact PCGS or NGC for authentication and professional grading.
Final Thoughts: That 1964 Coin Could Be a Hidden Treasure
The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar isn’t just a coin—it’s a rare piece of American minting history. With so few known examples, each one holds extraordinary value. If you’re a collector, dealer, or simply someone with an old change jar, it’s worth taking a closer look.
Because the next SMS Kennedy Half Dollar discovery could easily be worth six figures.
FAQs
Q: How many 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollars exist?
A: Fewer than 20 authenticated examples are currently known, making this one of the rarest modern U.S. coins.
Q: Can I find one in circulation?
A: It’s unlikely but not impossible. A few coins have surfaced in dealer stock and personal collections previously considered ordinary.
Q: What’s the best way to confirm if I have one?
A: Submit the coin to a reputable grading service like PCGS or NGC for expert analysis and authentication.
Q: Are all 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars valuable?
A: No. Only the SMS versions with the unique finish and strike characteristics carry high value. Most 1964 half dollars are worth their silver content or a small premium.