The 1968 Kennedy half dollar is a common collectible with silver content and steady collector interest. Values are driven by condition, mintmark, and silver melt, not rarity. This guide explains how collectors price these coins and what to watch for when buying or selling.
Understanding 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar Values
When reading prices for 1968 Kennedy half dollars you are seeing a mix of bullion value and numismatic premium. The coin carries 40 percent silver, which sets a minimum value equal to its silver melt price.
Above that minimum, grade, eye appeal, and certification add value. Most 1968 halves are affordable, but higher grades and attractive examples command steady premiums.
Silver Content and Melt Value
1968 Kennedy half dollars contain 40 percent silver. That composition means melt value fluctuates with the silver spot price. For basic valuation, calculate melt value first, then add any numismatic premium.
- How to calculate melt: multiply the coin’s silver weight by current silver price per ounce.
- Melt value is the baseline; circulated coins rarely fall below this in a normal market.
Mintmarks and Production Notes
In 1968, the U.S. Mint produced Kennedy halves at Denver (D) and San Francisco (S). The mintmark appears on the obverse under the president’s bust.
Mint counts for 1968 were large, so mintmark alone rarely creates major value jumps. Special proof coins from San Francisco and certified high-grade examples are the main exceptions.
Typical Price Ranges for 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar Values
Below are general market ranges. These are typical retail ranges, not guarantees. Prices vary over time and by seller.
- Circulated (Good to Fine): Often close to silver melt value.
- Extremely Fine (EF40): Slight premium over melt, typically low double digits depending on silver.
- About Uncirculated (AU50–AU58): Modest numismatic premium; common prices fall in the $10–$40 range.
- Uncirculated (MS60–MS63): Collectors often pay $20–$75 depending on strike and eye appeal.
- High Uncirculated (MS64–MS66+): Stronger premiums; prices commonly range from $75 into the low hundreds for MS65 or better.
- Proofs (PR from San Francisco): Proofs in lower grades are modestly priced; high grade proofs and deep cameo examples fetch more.
Keep in mind these ranges include variability from silver price changes and market demand.
Grading and Certification Impact on Values
Certified coins (PCGS, NGC) usually sell for higher and more consistent prices. Certification removes grade uncertainty and helps buyers trust the quality.
Even within the same grade, coins with original luster, strong strikes, and minimal contact marks get top dollar.
Key Varieties and Error Coins
Serious collectors look for varieties and errors that can add premium value. Examples include die cracks, doubled dies, and unusual strikes.
- Minor die flaws may add small premiums.
- Documented doubled dies or strong mint errors can attract significant collector interest and higher prices.
The 1968 Kennedy half dollar is made of 40% silver and 60% copper. That composition applied to Kennedy halves minted from 1965 through 1970.
How Collectors Buy and Sell 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar Values
Buyers should compare several sources: local coin dealers, coin shows, online marketplaces, and auction results. Check recent sales rather than asking prices for a realistic picture.
Selling strategies include listing certified coins, providing high-quality photos, and quoting recent comparable sales to justify price.
Practical Tips
- Always verify the mintmark location and condition before valuing a coin.
- Use online sold listings and price guides as starting points, not fixed rules.
- Consider certification if you expect to sell in the higher-grade market.
Small Case Study: A Local Purchase and Resale
A collector attended a local coin show and examined a 1968-D Kennedy half in holder labeled MS64. After comparing online sold listings, they paid $70. A few months later, after obtaining a clearer certification photo and listing on an auction site, the coin sold for $85.
This example shows how research, presentation, and modest listing strategy can add value for common silver Kennedy halves.
Final Checklist: Assessing 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar Values
- Confirm mintmark (D or S) and whether it is a proof.
- Calculate silver melt value as the baseline.
- Evaluate grade, eye appeal, and strike quality.
- Check recent sold prices from reliable marketplaces and auction houses.
- Consider certification for premiums above common MS63–MS64 levels.
1968 Kennedy half dollars are accessible pieces for beginning and experienced collectors. Understanding silver content, grading, and current market demand will help you judge what collectors are paying and make smarter buy or sell decisions.
