A very rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar has been found after being missing for almost 60 years. This special coin came from a private estate collection. It was recently confirmed to be real by coin experts. The coin is now worth over $175,000 and might even sell for as much as $250,000 at auction. This discovery has surprised many people in the coin collecting world.
A Coin Made After a Sad Time
The Kennedy Half Dollar was first made in 1964. It was created after the death of President John F. Kennedy in November 1963. The U.S. Mint made the coin quickly as a tribute to him. The coin was made with 90% silver and became very popular. Many Americans kept the coin to remember the president.
The Lost Prototype Coin
Over the years, there were rumors of a special version of the Kennedy Half Dollar. Some people said the Mint made a few test coins, called prototypes, before the real ones were made. These special coins were said to have very high detail and were never given to the public. Many thought they were lost or destroyed.
One of these coins had never been seen — until now.
Found After 60 Years in a Family Box
This rare coin was recently found inside a box of old items. The box belonged to a family whose relative once worked with the U.S. Mint. It sat hidden for many years. A family member brought the coin to a coin show, and a collector noticed that it looked different.
The coin was then checked by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). They confirmed it was a real 1964 prototype Kennedy Half Dollar. It might be one of only two in the whole world.
Why This Coin Is So Valuable
It Was Never Released to the Public
This coin is a prototype. That means it was made only for testing and never meant for people to use. Its design and details are different from regular coins.
It Is Part of U.S. History
The coin was made during a very emotional time in America. It reminds people of President Kennedy’s death and how the country came together. That makes the coin very special.
It Is Extremely Rare
Experts believe only one or two of these coins exist. That makes it one of the rarest U.S. coins ever made in modern times.
It Is in Great Condition
Even though the coin is over 60 years old, it still looks almost new. It was kept in a safe, dry place. That helped keep it in great shape, which adds to its value.
What This Means for Coin Collectors
This amazing find has excited coin collectors everywhere. It shows that rare and valuable coins can still be found today. Auction houses are very interested in this coin, and it might sell for over $250,000.
This story also reminds people to check their old boxes and coin jars. You never know what rare coins might be hiding in your home.
What To Do If You Find a Rare Coin
- Be Gentle: Do not clean the coin. Cleaning can lower its value.
- Check with Experts: Get the coin checked by a grading company like PCGS or NGC.
- Learn More About It: Look for special signs like mint marks or different designs.
A New Part of the Kennedy Coin Story
The Kennedy Half Dollar is more than just a coin. It is a memory of a very important time in U.S. history. Finding this lost prototype adds a new story to the coin’s history.
If you love coins or are just starting out, this story shows that exciting treasures are still out there. You might have one in your own home, waiting to be discovered.
FAQs
What is a prototype coin?
A test coin made before public release.
How old is the Kennedy Half Dollar?
It was made in 1964.
Why is this coin rare?
It was never released to the public.
Who found the coin?
A family member from a former Mint worker’s estate.
How much is it worth?
Over $175,000, possibly up to $250,000.