how much is silver half dollars worth

[McMadelyn]

The value of a silver half dollar is primarily determined by its year of mintage, which dictates its silver content and corresponding melt value. The specific worth fluctuates daily with the spot price of silver.

Based on the provided information, U.S. half dollars minted before 1965, including the 1964 Kennedy half dollar, are composed of 90% silver. Their intrinsic melt value is approximately $9.21. This category includes Barber, Walking Liberty, and Franklin half dollars, as well as the 1964 Kennedy issue.

From 1965 to 1970, the composition of the Kennedy half dollar was changed to 40% silver. These coins have a lower melt value, currently calculated at around $3.68. It is important to note that circulated half dollars minted from 1971 onward do not contain any silver and are generally only worth their face value of 50 cents.

These figures represent the melt value, which is the baseline worth of the raw precious metal in the coin. The actual value of a specific half dollar can be significantly higher depending on its condition, rarity, and specific mint mark. Coins in excellent condition or those with rare dates are often worth more to collectors than just their silver content.