which kennedy half dollars are worth a lot of money

[MacAubree]

So, you're rummaging through your coin jar hoping to find a Kennedy half dollar that will pay for your next vacation? A noble quest! Before you book any non-refundable flights, let's look at which ones are actually worth more than a cup of coffee.

Based on the collector's market, the real money isn't in the common coins you'd get as change. The headliners are special collector's editions, particularly proof coins with unique finishes. For instance, the 1998 S Silver Frosted Matte Finish Proof and the 2019 S Enhanced Reverse Proof can fetch over $100. That's a pretty good return on a 50-cent investment.

Trailing not far behind are other special issues like the 2014 W Silver Reverse Proof, which might be worth between $60 and $70. A whole slew of other silver proof coins from the 1990s, such as the 1993, 1994, 1995, and 1996 issues, can also command a respectable $30 to $45.

The crucial catch here is condition. These prices are for coins in pristine, uncirculated MS60 condition or better. So, that Kennedy half dollar that's been rattling around in your car's cup holder probably won't make the cut. The most valuable ones were never meant for circulation in the first place; they were made for people who like to look at shiny things.