The 1983-P Kennedy half dollar is a coin that many collectors find fascinating. It was minted in Philadelphia and intended for everyday use. In the early 1980s, finding a half dollar in your change was quite unusual, making it a memorable experience for many. The coin’s large size and its history, being a holdover from when half dollars were made of silver, made it feel special. Even though it’s not rare, it’s a coin that people often felt reluctant to spend.
The Philadelphia Mint produced 34,139,000 of these half dollars in 1983, a number that remains unmatched. The significance of the 1983 half dollars, both from Philadelphia and Denver, is partly due to the Mint’s shift to 24-hour production to meet demand. This led to the cancellation of annual Uncirculated Coin Sets for 1982 and 1983. While a small number of Souvenir Sets were made for sale at Mint gift shops, the usual Mint State coins reserved for sets were not issued, making them scarce and collectible.
Understanding the Value of the 1983-P Kennedy Half Dollar
| Condition | Estimated Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Face Value | $0.50 | Value of the coin in normal circulation. |
| Raw Mint State | $3 – $5 | Typical selling price on eBay for ungraded coins. |
| MS66 (Mint State 66) | $30 – $40 | Higher value for well-preserved coins in this grade. |
| MS67 (Mint State 67) | $260 – $290 | Top grade coins with a significantly higher value. |
| MS68 (Mint State 68) | Rare, value varies | Extremely rare, highest grade, significant premium. |
Coins in Mint State (MS) grades are valued much higher. A coin in MS66 might sell for between $30 and $40, while an MS67 coin can command prices from $260 to $290. The value of MS67 coins has decreased from past years due to a growing number of collectors and certified coins on the market.
Market Data and Noteworthy Specimens
- Top Population: PCGS MS68 (1, April 2024), NGC MS67+ (1, April 2024)
- PCGS MS67+ #47455371: Sold for $1,357.88 at GreatCollections, August 27, 2023.
- NGC MS67 #6800670-004: Sold for $259.99 on eBay, March 25, 2024.
- PCGS MS67 #5610507: Sold for $288 at Stack’s Bowers, April 12, 2023.
Design Features of the 1983-P Kennedy Half Dollar
Obverse (Front Side):
- Designed by Gilroy Roberts.
- Features John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States.
- The inscription reads “LIBERTY,” with the year “1983” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” above the president’s portrait.
- The mint mark “P” is on the right side.
Reverse (Back Side):
- Designed by Frank Gasparro.
- Depicts a heraldic eagle with arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing war and peace.
- Includes the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DOLLAR.”
- The eagle faces towards the olive branch, representing peace.
Edge:
- The coin features a reeded edge.
Designers
- Gilroy Roberts: Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint from 1948 to 1965, known for the Kennedy half dollar obverse.
- Frank Gasparro: Chief Engraver from 1965 to 1981, designed the reverse of the Kennedy half dollar.
1983-P Kennedy Half Dollar Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1983 |
| Denomination | Half Dollar (50 Cents USD) |
| Mintmark | P (Philadelphia) |
| Mintage | 34,139,000 |
| Alloy | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel |
| Weight | 11.34 g |
| Diameter | 30.60 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Obverse Designer | Gilroy Roberts |
| Reverse Designer | Frank Gasparro |
| Quality | Business Strike |
Conclusion
The 1983-P Kennedy half dollar is a significant piece for collectors due to its unique production history and design. Though not rare, its value increases significantly with higher grades and mint states. For those interested in numismatics, understanding these aspects can help in appreciating the coin’s place in American currency history.
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