Which Half Dollars Are Silver?

For most of U.S. history, the half dollar contained silver. However, since 1971, no new half dollars have been minted with silver, making silver half dollars an appealing choice for collectors and investors.

In many ways, investing in silver half dollars is an excellent entry point for beginning precious metals investors. Here’s a guide to help you understand the history of silver half dollars, identify silver-bearing coins, and start your collection

Historical Context of Silver in U.S. Coinage

The Coinage Act of 1792 established the U.S. currency system, created the U.S. Mint, and specified the exact metal content of each coin. For over a century, half dollars were mandated to contain 90% silver and 10% copper.

Until 1948, the half dollar featured versions of the Goddess of Liberty. These Liberty-adorned coins contained 90% silver. Even as coin designs shifted to honor notable Americans, the silver content remained. All Franklin halves and some early Kennedy halves followed this 90% silver composition, but this changed in 1965.

The Coinage Act of 1965 reduced the silver content of half dollars to 40%. This alloy remained until 1971, when half dollars began using the copper-nickel alloy still in use today.

Silver Half Dollar Types

All half dollars produced before 1965 contain 90% silver. The earliest versions, including the Flowing Hair, Draped Bust, and Capped Bust, are now more than 185 years old and are extremely rare, with their collectible value far exceeding the silver content.

Let’s discuss the more accessible silver half dollars, which include the following:

• Seated Liberty Half Dollar (1839–1891): Featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, this coin design is characterized by its symbolic imagery, including a Phrygian cap and a shield with “Liberty” embossed on it.
• Barber Half Dollar (1892–1915): Named after engraver Charles E. Barber, this coin has a simpler right-facing bust of Lady Liberty on the obverse and a symmetrical eagle on the reverse.
• Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916–1947): One of the most iconic designs, this coin shows Lady Liberty striding toward a rising sun, holding laurel and oak branches, with a lifelike eagle on the reverse.
• Franklin Half Dollar (1948–1963): Featuring Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and a cracked Liberty Bell on the reverse, this coin is notable for its historical significance and 90% silver content.
• Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 and Post-1964 Silver-Clad Issues): Created to honor President Kennedy after his assassination, the 1964 Kennedy half dollar contains 90% silver. From 1965 to 1970, the silver content was reduced to 40%. Since 1971, all Kennedy halves have been minted with cupronickel.

Key Dates and Collectors’ Notes

• 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar: The only Kennedy half minted with 90% silver, making it highly sought after by collectors.
• 1965-1970 Kennedy Half Dollars: These contain 40% silver and are the last circulating U.S. coins made with silver.
• 1976 Bicentennial Silver-Clad Half Dollar: Released to celebrate the U.S. bicentennial, this special edition was minted in a 40% silver alloy.

Notable Errors: Some 1964 Kennedy halves feature a double die error or a version with more defined hair. Look for a “D” mint mark and check for doubling in the words “Trust” and “Liberty.” In 1971 and 1977, some Denver-minted halves were struck on leftover 40% silver planchets, adding to their collectible value.

Proof Sets: The U.S. Mint continues to produce 99.9% silver proofs of Kennedy half dollars for collectors. Due to their specialized production process, these coins have frosted designs and mirrored backgrounds.

Other articles of interest:

• How much is a silver dollar worth?
• Which nickels are silver?
• What are the most valuable quarters?
• Who is on the half dollar? 

Why Invest in Silver Half Dollars?

Silver half dollars are attractive investments for several reasons. First, they are historical pieces tied to significant events in American history. Additionally, they provide a tangible way to invest in silver, often costing less than $20 in circulated condition, though well-preserved coins can command much higher prices.

For those looking to maximize silver content, silver bars or rounds may offer lower premiums. However, the extra cost of silver half dollars is justified by their historical value and certified silver content.

Investing in silver half dollars offers a chance to hold a piece of American history. Whether you’re interested in 90% silver halves or the 40% pieces, JM Bullion has you covered. Visit our silver coins page to get started!