The 1976-D Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar is a special coin that was created to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence. First released on July 7, 1975, this coin quickly became popular among collectors and the general public. With a unique design and a high mintage, it holds a special place in the history of U.S. coins.
What Makes the 1976-D Kennedy Half Dollar Special?
The 1976-D Kennedy Half Dollar is part of the U.S. Mint’s Bicentennial series, which features coins that celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States. These coins are different from regular coins because they have a special double date, “1776-1976,” instead of just one year. This design was made to honor the nation’s founding and was only used during 1975 and 1976.
Mintage and Popularity
The U.S. Mint produced a large number of these coins due to high demand. The Denver Mint alone struck 287,565,248 of these half dollars over two years (1975 and 1976). This was a significant increase of almost 364% compared to the number of Kennedy Half Dollars produced in 1974. The coins were so popular that many were pulled from circulation and kept by collectors.
Determining the Year of Production
Even though all Kennedy Half Dollars minted in 1975 and 1976 have the same “1776-1976” date, there is a way to figure out when a specific coin was made. If the coin is part of a 1975 Uncirculated Coin Set, it was minted in 1975. If it’s in a 1976 set, it was minted in 1976.
Value of the 1976-D Kennedy Half Dollar
The value of the 1976-D Kennedy Half Dollar varies depending on its condition and rarity. Here’s a breakdown of the typical values:
| Grade | Approximate Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Face Value | $0.50 | Circulated, common coins in lower grades. |
| AU (About Uncirculated) | $1 – $2 | Coins in good condition but still circulated. |
| MS 63 – MS 64 (Mint State) | $1 – $25 | Low-mint state coins, still common. |
| MS 65 | $25 – $30 | Higher quality, but not rare. |
| MS 66 | $35 – $150 | High quality, but still accessible to collectors. |
| MS 67 | $1,000 – $2,000 | Extremely high quality, rare and highly sought after. |
| Error Coins | $1,000 – $3,105 | Coins with minting errors, which are highly valuable. |
Note: Prices can fluctuate based on market demand and specific characteristics of the coin, like toning or unusual features.
Rare and Valuable Specimens
While most 1976-D Kennedy Half Dollars are common, some rare specimens can fetch high prices. For example, an error coin struck on a quarter planchet sold for $3,105 in 2004. Similarly, high-grade coins in MS67 condition have sold for over $1,000 in recent years.
Design Details
Obverse (Front)
The obverse side of the coin features a portrait of John F. Kennedy, designed by Gilroy Roberts. The design also includes the word “LIBERTY” at the top, the dual date “1776-1976” at the bottom, and the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” across Kennedy’s neck.
Reverse (Back)
The reverse side, designed by Seth Huntington, depicts Independence Hall in Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. The design is surrounded by the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DOLLAR.” The words “200 YEARS OF FREEDOM” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (meaning “Out of Many, One”) are also featured.
Coin Specifications
Here’s a quick summary of the key details about the 1976-D Kennedy Half Dollar:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Years of Issue | 1975 and 1976 |
| Denomination | Half Dollar (50 Cents USD) |
| Mintmark | D (Denver) |
| Mintage | 287,565,248 |
| Alloy | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel |
| Weight | 11.34 g |
| Diameter | 30.60 mm |
| Edge | Reeded (150 reeds) |
| Designers | Gilroy Roberts (Obverse), Seth Huntington (Reverse) |
Conclusion
The 1976-D Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar is a fascinating coin that captures a moment in U.S. history. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, this coin offers an affordable and interesting piece of Americana. While most examples are common and worth little more than face value, high-grade and error coins can be quite valuable. Keep an eye out for these special pieces when searching through your collection or purchasing new coins.
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FAQ’s
How can I tell if my 1976-D Kennedy Half Dollar is valuable?
The value of your 1976-D Kennedy Half Dollar depends on its condition and rarity. Coins in mint condition (graded MS66 or higher) or those with minting errors are the most valuable, often fetching prices in the hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Common circulated coins usually hold a value of around $0.50 to $2.
Why does the 1976-D Kennedy Half Dollar have two dates on it?
The 1976-D Kennedy Half Dollar features the dates “1776-1976” to commemorate the United States’ Bicentennial, celebrating 200 years of independence. This double date is unique to coins minted in 1975 and 1976 as part of the Bicentennial series.
