There is no president from 20th century America that was more popular than John F. Kennedy. Elected in 1960 as the youngest man to hold the office, and the first-ever Catholic, Kennedy was immensely popular among Americans of all generations. The 90% Silver Kennedy Half Dollar coin is now available from APR 57.

Coin Highlights:

• Ships to you in a plastic coin tube.
• Consists of a total of 20 coins.
• Contains 7.15Troy oz of actual silver content.
• Issued a face value of $.50 (USD) by the United States.
• Obverse features John F. Kennedy’s portrait.
• Reverse includes the modified presidential shield.

President John F. Kennedy influenced America for more than a decade with his wonderful speaking abilities and his vision for a brighter future for the nation. However, he would serve for just two years in office prior to his assassination in Dallas, Texas on November 22, 1963.

Within hours and days of his assassination the United States Mint hoped to put his face on one of the nation’s larger silver coins. The dollar, half dollar, and quarter were originally targeted. US Mint Director Eva Adams reached out to Gilroy Adams, Chief Engraver of the mint, within days for potential designs.

First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy played a role in her husbands face landing on the half dollar within three months of his death. Mrs. Kennedy didn’t want to see President George Washington replaced on the quarter, and thought the most appropriate replacement would be that of Benjamin Franklin on the half dollar.

By January 1964, President John F. Kennedy’s portrait was on the half dollar and in circulation. The left-profile portrait of Kennedy was created by Gilroy Roberts, Chief Engraver of the United States Mint. It is accompanied by engravings of the word “Liberty” and phrase “In God We Trust,” along with the year of issue.

The reverse of the Kennedy Half Dollar is the image of the modified presidential shield. It includes the American bald eagle, as well as the traditional arrows and olive branch in the eagle’s talons.

All 90% Silver Kennedy Half Dollar Coins listed here are from 1964. This is the only year in which Kennedy Half Dollar coins were struck with .900, or 90%, silver content. The Coinage Act of 1965 eliminated the use of pure silver in circulation coins, leaving only the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar with 90% silver content.

We encourage APR 57 customers to ask questions. Our customer service team is available to you on the phone at 212-246-2000, online using our live web chat, and via our email address. See similar items on our 40% and 90% Silver page.