The John F. Kennedy Half Dollar was authorized by Congress just a month after President Kennedy’s assassination on November 22, 1963. The coin was intended to honor Kennedy’s legacy and commemorate his contributions to the United States.

The design of the Kennedy Half Dollar was created by Gilroy Roberts, Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time. The obverse features a portrait of President Kennedy facing left, while the reverse depicts the presidential coat of arms, which includes a heraldic eagle with a shield.

Initially, the Kennedy Half Dollar was composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, in line with other circulating silver coins of the time. From 1965 onwards, the composition was changed to a copper-nickel alloy due to the rising price of silver.

Mintage:

• 1964: The Kennedy Half Dollar was first minted in 1964. This year is notable because it was the only year the coin was minted with 90% silver. Due to the high demand and the public’s desire to acquire a piece of history, millions of Kennedy Half Dollars were produced in 1964.
• 1965-1970: From 1965 to 1970, the composition of the Kennedy Half Dollar was changed to copper-nickel. Mintage numbers during these years were relatively high, reflecting the coin’s continued circulation in the United States.
• 1971-Present: Since 1971, the Kennedy Half Dollar has been minted for collectors and special occasions, but it has largely disappeared from circulation. Mintage numbers for circulation strikes have been significantly lower compared to earlier years.

Over the years, the United States Mint has issued various special editions and commemorative versions of the Kennedy Half Dollar to mark significant events or anniversaries. These include proof coins, silver proof coins, and special mint sets.