John F. Kennedy remains one of the most revered American presidents. Following his tragic assassination in 1963, the US Mint honored him by issuing commemorative half-dollars. These coins quickly became highly sought after by the public.
The value of the 1994 Kennedy Half Dollar is influenced by its historical and commemorative significance, as well as its condition, mint mark, and any minting errors. Some of these coins can be quite valuable.
Table of Contents
- Value Chart for 1994 Half Dollar
- Historical Significance of the 1994 Half Dollar
- 1994 Half Dollar Types
- Design of the 1994 Half Dollar
- 1994 Half Dollar Grading Guide
- 1994 Kennedy Half Dollar Value Guide
- Rare 1994 Half Dollar Errors List
- Where to Sell Your Kennedy 1994 Half Dollar?
- What to look for in A 1994 Half Dollar?
- Which 1994 half-dollars are particularly valuable?
- What are the most expensive half-dollars with a Kennedy image?
- FAQs on 1994 Kennedy Half Dollar Value
- Final Thoughts
Value Chart for 1994 Half Dollar
| Condition | 1994 P Half Dollar | 1994 D Half Dollar | 1994 S Half Dollar | 1994 S Silver Half Dollar |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MS 63 | $9 | $9 | NA | NA |
| PR 65 | NA | NA | $5 | $18 |
Historical Significance of the 1994 Half Dollar
The US Mint first issued Kennedy half-dollars in 1964 to commemorate the late President. After John F. Kennedy was assassinated by Lee Harvey Oswald on November 22, 1963, the nation entered a period of mourning and disbelief.
Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, was the youngest man ever elected to the office. After graduating from Harvard at 23, he served in the Navy and was seriously injured when a Japanese destroyer struck his PT boat in 1943.
Following World War II, Kennedy quickly rose through the political ranks, becoming President in 1961. He was assassinated just after completing his first thousand days in office, making him the youngest President to die while serving.
In the wake of his assassination, the US Mint began planning commemorative coins. Although various denominations were considered, Kennedy’s widow chose the half-dollar to preserve George Washington’s image on the quarter.
Engravers Gilroy Roberts and Frank Gasparro were tasked with expediting the design process. They adapted existing designs, completing the required obverse and reverse appearances in record time.
When the first Kennedy half-dollars were released, Americans lined up at banks to obtain these coins as mementos of their beloved President.
1994 Half Dollar Types
| Location | Year | Minted |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 1994 P half-dollar | 23,718,000 |
| Denver | 1994 D half-dollar | 23,828,110 |
| San Francisco | 1994 S proof half-dollar | 2,484,594 |
| San Francisco | 1994 S proof half-dollar | 785,329 |
| Total | – | 50,816,033 |
Design of the 1994 Half Dollar
Despite the evolution of coin designs over the years, the Kennedy half-dollars have largely maintained their original 1964 design. The only significant alteration occurred on the reverse side in 1975 and 1976. However, the composition of these coins has seen several changes.
Obverse Design of 1994 Half Dollar
The obverse of the 1994 Kennedy half-dollar prominently features the profile of John Fitzgerald Kennedy facing left. The inscription “LIBERTY” arcs along the upper rim, partially obscured by Kennedy’s hair. Below, the well-known motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is split into two parts by the end of Kennedy’s bust. The mint mark and the year of minting are displayed along the lower rim.
Reverse Design of 1994 Half Dollar
The reverse side showcases a modified version of the presidential seal. At the center is a proud American eagle, clutching an olive branch in one claw and a bundle of arrows in the other, with its wings spread wide. The eagle’s chest bears the Union shield, and its beak holds a banner inscribed with “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
Above the eagle are 13 stars and balls, symbolizing the original colonies, while a ring of 50 stars represents the current states. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DOLLAR” encircle the upper and lower rims, respectively.
Technical Specifications of The 1994 Half Dollar
| Features | Cupronickel Coins | Silver Proof Coins |
|---|---|---|
| Face Value | 50 cents ($0.50) | |
| Compound | Copper and nickel (91.67%: 8.33%) | Silver and copper (90%: 10%) |
| Coin Weight | 0.400 ounces (11.34 g) | 0.402 troy ounces (12.50 g) |
| Coin Silver Weight | NA | 0.329 troy ounces (10.25 g) |
| Coin Diameter | 1.205 inches (30.61 mm) | 1.205 inches (30.61 mm) |
| Coin Thickness | 0.085 inches (2.15 mm) | 0.085 inches (2.15 mm) |
| Shape | Round | |
| Edge | 150 reeds | |
1994 Half Dollar Grading Guide
Professional appraisers use the Sheldon scale to grade American coins. Introduced by numismatist William Sheldon in 1949, this scale was initially designed to standardize the assessment of Large Cents. Over time, the original Sheldon scale became outdated, prompting numismatists to adapt it in 1970. Today, it remains the standard for grading all coins, including the 1994 Kennedy Half Dollar, and is widely used by professional appraisers.
| Sheldon Scale | Grade |
|---|---|
| 1 | Basal State-1 |
| 2 | Fair |
| 3 | Very Fair |
| 4, 5, 6 | Good |
| 7, 8, 10 | Very Good |
| 12, 15 | Fine |
| 20, 30 | Very Fine |
| 40 | Extremely Fine |
| 50 | About Uncirculated |
| 60 | Mint State |
| 65 | Mint State |
| 70 | Mint State |
When grading a 1994 Kennedy Half Dollar, appraisers look for specific characteristics that indicate its condition:
- Surface Preservation: Evaluates the presence of scratches, marks, or other imperfections.
- Luster: Assesses the coin’s shine and how light reflects off its surface.
- Strike: Examines the clarity and sharpness of the coin’s design details.
- Eye Appeal: Considers the overall visual attractiveness of the coin.
Coins in higher grades, such as MS-67 or MS-68, are particularly valuable due to their exceptional preservation and eye appeal. These coins often fetch higher prices at auctions and among collectors.
By understanding the Sheldon scale and the specific criteria used in grading, collectors can better assess the value and quality of their 1994 Kennedy Half Dollars.
1994 Kennedy Half Dollar Value Guide
In 1994, the US Mint produced a total of 50,816,033 Kennedy half-dollars across three mints, resulting in four distinct varieties. Two regular coin types were made of copper alloy, while the San Francisco Mint issued both cupronickel and silver proofs. Despite their high circulation, these coins remain popular among collectors.
1994 P Half Dollar Value
The Philadelphia Mint produced 23,718,000 Kennedy half-dollars in 1994, all bearing the “P” mint mark. These coins are still commonly found in circulation, and their value largely depends on their condition. Circulated coins typically sell for around $0.70.
Even coins in lower mint state grades (MS 60 to MS 65) are relatively affordable, ranging from $5 to $12. Coins graded MS 66 are valued at about $30, while those in MS 67 can fetch around $75. The most valuable 1994 P half-dollars are graded MS 68, with an estimated value of $1,950. The highest recorded sale for a 1994 P half-dollar in MS 68 was $2,115 in 2014.
1994 D Half Dollar Value
The Denver Mint had the highest mintage of Kennedy half-dollars in 1994, producing 23,828,110 coins, each marked with a “D.” Circulated coins are valued at approximately $0.70, slightly above their face value.
Coins in mint state grades MS 60 to MS 65 are priced between $5 and $12. MS 66 coins are valued at around $24, while MS 67 coins can reach up to $150. The most valuable are those graded MS 68, with an estimated value of $3,850. However, the highest recorded sale for a 1994 D half-dollar in MS 68 was $2,300 in 2018.
1994 S Proof Half Dollar Value (Clad)
In 1994, the San Francisco Mint produced 2,484,594 proof Kennedy half-dollars with a clad composition. These coins, marked with an “S,” are known for their luster and detailed design. Proof coins are collector items and were never circulated.
Prices for these modern proof coins with Deep Cameo (DCAM) quality are as follows:
- PR 64: $4
- PR 65: $5
- PR 66: $6
- PR 67: $7
- PR 68: $8
- PR 69: $14
- PR 70: $40
The highest auction record for a 1994 S proof half-dollar in PR 70 was $633, set in 2003.
1994 S Proof Half Dollars Value (Silver)
The San Francisco Mint also produced 785,329 silver proof Kennedy half-dollars in 1994. These coins are more valuable due to their silver content. Prices for these coins with Deep Cameo (DCAM) quality are as follows:
- PR 64: $18
- PR 65: $18
- PR 66: $18
- PR 67: $18
- PR 68: $18
- PR 69: $23
- PR 70: $60
The highest recorded sale for a 1994 S silver proof half-dollar in PR 70 was $506, achieved in 2003.
Rare 1994 Half Dollar Errors List
The US Mint aims for perfection in coin production, but human and mechanical errors still occur. Interestingly, coins with imperfections can be highly valuable, attracting collectors who seek unique and rare specimens, including Kennedy half-dollars.
Struck through grease error (missing design elements)
Foreign objects like dirt, dust, or grease can interfere with the coining process, altering the coin’s appearance. When impurities accumulate inside the die, they can cover the coin’s surface, resulting in missing design elements. Although 1994 half-dollars with this error are generally affordable, you can typically purchase them for around $15.
1994 Kennedy Half Dollar Die Clash Error
A die clash occurs when the obverse and reverse dies collide under high pressure, damaging one or both dies and transferring design elements between them. Coins struck with these damaged dies have distorted images. 1994 half-dollars with die clash errors are relatively inexpensive, usually costing about $4.
1994 Half Dollar Clad layer missing error
Most 1994 half-dollars have a copper core with a cupronickel outer layer. This error occurs when the outer layer is missing, exposing the copper core on one side of the coin. These error coins are available for approximately $25.
1994 Half Dollar Curved Clip Error
This error happens when the metal plate advances too slowly in the press, resulting in a planchet with a concave edge. You can find 1994 half-dollars with curved clip errors for around $185.
Where to Sell Your Kennedy 1994 Half Dollar?
Now that you know the value of your coins, you might be wondering where to sell them online. Here are some recommended platforms, along with their pros and cons:
- eBay: Widely used, but fees can be high.
- Heritage Auctions: Trusted for high-value items, but competitive.
- Coin Shows: Great for networking, but requires travel.
For more detailed guide on this topic, please read Best Places to Sell Coins Online.
What to look for in A 1994 Half Dollar?
When evaluating a 1994 Kennedy Half Dollar, there are several key factors to consider:
- Condition: The coin’s grade significantly impacts its value. Look for coins with minimal wear and strong luster, ideally in mint state (MS) grades.
- Mint Mark: Check for the mint mark (“P,” “D,” or “S”) to determine where the coin was produced. Coins from different mints can have varying values.
- Errors: Unique errors, such as struck through grease, die clashes, missing clad layers, or curved clips, can make a coin more valuable. These imperfections are often sought after by collectors.
- Proof Coins: Proof coins, especially those from the San Francisco Mint, are highly detailed and have a mirror-like finish. Silver proof coins are particularly valuable due to their composition.
Which 1994 half-dollars are particularly valuable?
- 1994 D MS 68 half-dollar: $2,300 (2018)
- 1994 P MS 68 half-dollar: $2,115 (2014)
- 1994 S PR 70 DCAM half-dollar: $633 (2003)
- 1994 S PR 70 DCAM silver half-dollar: $506 (2003)
What are the most expensive half-dollars with a Kennedy image?
- 1964 PR 69 DCAM half-dollar with Accented Hair: $45,600 (2022)
- 1968 S PR 70 DCAM coin: $24,000 (2023)
- 1964 MS 68 half-dollar (Denver): $22,235 (2016)
- 1971 clad coin in MS 61 grade (San Francisco): $13,700 (2018)
FAQs on 1994 Kennedy Half Dollar Value
What makes 1994 half-dollars rare?
Most modern half-dollars are still in circulation, making 1994 coins common. However, mint state pieces and those with significant errors can be valuable and rare.
What are 1994 Half Dollars Made of?
The 1994 Kennedy Half Dollar is composed of a copper-nickel clad. Specifically, it consists of an outer layer made of 75% copper and 25% nickel, bonded to an inner core of pure copper. This composition has been standard for Kennedy Half Dollars since 1971, following the discontinuation of the 40% silver version used from 1965 to 1970.
Final Thoughts
The 1994 Kennedy Half Dollar holds significant historical and commemorative value, making it a popular choice among collectors. Whether you’re looking for coins in pristine condition, unique mint errors, or valuable proof versions, understanding what to look for can help you make informed decisions.
By focusing on condition, mint marks, and errors, you can uncover the true worth of your 1994 Half Dollar and potentially find a valuable addition to your collection.