Historical Context

Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963, the Kennedy Half Dollar was introduced in 1964. Due to silver shortages, the composition was changed in 1965 from 90% to 40% silver, where it remained through 1970. After 1970, Kennedy Half Dollars contained no silver (except special collector versions).

Composition and Silver Content

Kennedy Half Dollars minted from 1965-1970 contain 40% silver (outer layers) with a copper-nickel core, weighing 11.5 grams total. The silver content per coin is 0.1479 troy ounces - significantly less than the 90% silver 1964 version but still valuable.

Collectibility

While these coins have lower silver content than their 1964 counterparts, they remain popular for junk silver stacking. Most circulated examples trade at melt value, though uncirculated and proof versions can carry premiums.