A seemingly ordinary 1966 Kennedy Half Dollar recently made headlines by fetching an impressive $14,850 at auction.
Once nearly spent as pocket change, this coin’s journey to becoming an auction star underscores the hidden treasures that can lie within everyday currency.
The Coin’s Transformation
The 1966 Kennedy Half Dollar in question was part of a Special Mint Set (SMS), a series produced by the U.S. Mint during the mid-1960s.
Unlike regular circulation coins, SMS coins were struck with extra care, resulting in a sharper and more detailed finish.
This particular coin was graded Specimen-68 Deep Cameo (SP68 DCAM) by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), placing it among the finest known examples of its kind.
Auction Highlights
In a competitive bidding environment, the coin achieved a final sale price of $14,850. This figure includes the buyer’s premium and sets a new record for a 1966 Kennedy Half Dollar.
The coin’s exceptional grade and rarity contributed significantly to its high valuation.
Understanding the Value
Several factors contributed to the coin’s remarkable auction performance:
- Grade Rarity: Only a handful of 1966 Kennedy Half Dollars have achieved a SP68 DCAM grade, making them highly sought after by collectors.
- Deep Cameo Contrast: The coin exhibits a strong contrast between the frosted design elements and the mirrored background, a feature that enhances its visual appeal.
- Historical Significance: As part of the SMS series, this coin represents a unique period in U.S. minting history, adding to its desirability.
Coin Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1966 |
| Denomination | 50 Cents |
| Mint | Philadelphia (No Mint Mark) |
| Composition | 40% Silver, 60% Copper |
| Weight | 11.5 grams |
| Diameter | 30.6 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Grade | SP68 Deep Cameo (PCGS) |
| Sale Price | $14,850 |
| Auction House | GreatCollections |
The extraordinary sale of this 1966 Kennedy Half Dollar serves as a testament to the hidden value that can reside in seemingly ordinary coins.
Collectors and enthusiasts are reminded of the importance of closely examining their collections, as treasures may be hidden in plain sight.
FAQs
What makes a 1966 Kennedy Half Dollar valuable?
1966 Kennedy Half Dollar’s value increases with its grade, rarity, and unique features such as deep cameo contrast. Coins from the Special Mint Set with high grades like SP68 DCAM are particularly valuable.
How can I determine the grade of my Kennedy Half Dollar?
To accurately determine your coin’s grade, it’s advisable to have it evaluated by a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC. They assess the coin’s condition and assign a grade that reflects its quality.
Are all 1966 Kennedy Half Dollars made of silver?
Yes, 1966 Kennedy Half Dollars were composed of 40% silver and 60% copper, a composition used by the U.S. Mint from 1965 to 1970 for half dollars.