1776–1976 Kennedy Half Dollar: A Complete Collector’s Guide

Few modern U.S. coins have the immediate recognition and patriotic aura of the Bicentennial half dollar. Issued in 1975 and 1976 to mark America’s 200th year of independence, this coin was more than pocket change—it was a statement of national pride. Its dual date 1776–1976, paired with a special reverse design, makes it a standout in the Kennedy half dollar series.

While billions were produced, the story doesn’t end at “common.” Between mint variations, silver issues, and high-grade rarities, the Bicentennial half remains a rewarding piece for collectors of all levels. But what is its half dollar coin value? 

The Historical Setting

By the early 1970s, the United States Mint was preparing for the country’s Bicentennial. Congress authorized redesigns for three denominations—the quarter, half dollar, and dollar. Each would carry the dual date “1776–1976” and feature reverse artwork chosen through national competition.

The half dollar was assigned to Minnesota artist Seth G. Huntington, whose design of Independence Hall was ultimately selected. His choice was fitting: the building in Philadelphia where the Declaration of Independence was signed stood as a living symbol of the nation’s founding.

For the obverse, Gilroy Roberts’ portrait of President John F. Kennedy remained untouched, a reminder of the nation’s more recent history and Kennedy’s enduring legacy.

Design and Specifications

• Obverse: Kennedy facing left, inscriptions LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the dual date 1776–1976.

• Reverse: Independence Hall with the motto 200 YEARS OF FREEDOM, surrounded by UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and HALF DOLLAR. If you look closely, Huntington even included the tiny words INDEPENDENCE HALL.

• Edge: Reeded.

• Clad version: Copper-nickel composition, 11.34 g, diameter 30.6 mm.

• Silver-clad version: 40% silver, 60% copper, 11.5 g. Struck exclusively for collectors.

Clad vs. Silver 1776–1976 Kennedy Half Dollars

Mintages

The Bicentennial half was struck in staggering numbers, ensuring it reached both circulation and collectors’ hands.

Unlike most years, there are no 1975-dated Kennedy halves—all Mint output went to Bicentennial coinage.

Value by Condition

For the majority of circulated coins, value remains at face. But condition tells a different story.

Clad Business Strikes (P & D)

• Circulated: 50¢

• MS60: $1–$2

• MS63: $2–$3

• MS65: $8–$12

• MS67: $40–$75

• MS68 (rare): $300–$600

Silver-Clad Issues (S)

• Uncirculated BU: $8–$12

• Proof PR65: $12–$18

• Proof PR69 Deep Cameo: $25–$35

• Proof PR70 Deep Cameo: $80–$150+

• Silver melt value: ~ $4 at $25/oz silver

Varieties and Errors

Type 1 vs. Type 2 Reverse Lettering (Proofs):

Type 1 has bold, blocky letters in UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

Type 2 has sharp, refined letters. Type 1 proofs are scarcer and often carry premiums.

Mint Errors:

Off-center strikes, double strikes, and broadstrikes exist, sometimes dramatic. These can bring anywhere from $50 for modest examples to over $500 if the date and design are fully visible.

Clipped Planchets and Struck-Throughs: 

Collectors enjoy these for their curiosity value, typically $20–$100 depending on eye appeal.

Type 1 Vs. Type 2

When the U.S. Mint first prepared dies for the Bicentennial half dollar in 1975, the lettering on the reverse was heavy and somewhat clumsy. The words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, HALF DOLLAR, and 200 YEARS OF FREEDOM appear with thick strokes and rounded edges, giving the design a bold but slightly blurred appearance. This style is known as the Type 1 reverse. It was used only on the earliest proofs from San Francisco, which makes it scarcer today, especially in pristine Deep Cameo condition. Collectors who handle these coins often describe the letters as “blocky” or “fat,” and it is easy to spot once you compare it to later strikes.

By 1976, the Mint refined the design. The lettering was recut with sharper corners, thinner strokes, and a cleaner, more elegant look. The result was the Type 2 reverse, which became the standard for all circulation issues struck at Philadelphia and Denver, as well as the later proofs from San Francisco. In contrast to the heavy style of the Type 1, the Type 2 has a sleek appearance, with crisp edges and better definition. For this reason, it is considered the “regular” Bicentennial half, while the Type 1 remains a specialist’s variety.

The distinction is more than a minor detail—it tells a story about the Mint’s effort to perfect a design meant to commemorate America’s 200th year of independence. A proof struck in 1975 will always carry the bold, blocky Type 1 reverse, while a proof from 1976 will show the sharper Type 2. Circulation strikes exist only as Type 2, which means anyone searching through pocket change will encounter that version exclusively.

For collectors, the Type 1 proof stands out because of its lower production and shorter striking period. High-grade examples in PR69 or PR70 with strong cameo contrast can sell for considerably more than the more common Type 2 proofs. Both types, however, remain popular reminders of the Bicentennial celebration, and side by side, the difference in lettering is immediately clear.

Why Collect the Bicentennial Half?

• Historical Appeal: It is the only Kennedy half with a commemorative reverse.

• Accessibility: Billions were struck, so new collectors can obtain examples easily.

• Silver Issues: Affordable entry into U.S. silver coinage.

• Condition Challenges: Finding a flawless, fully lustrous clad coin without bag marks is tougher than it looks. This is where the real pursuit begins.

Investment Perspective

No one should treat the Bicentennial half dollar as a path to sudden wealth. Its huge mintage makes it a common coin. However, collectors can approach it with a nuanced view:

• Silver as a Floor: Silver-clad halves will always carry bullion value, giving them stability even when numismatic demand fluctuates.

• Registry Set Demand: MS68 Red clad examples and PR70 silver proofs are sought after by collectors who compete in registry rankings.

• Historical Permanence: The Bicentennial program remains one of the most celebrated U.S. Mint projects of the 20th century. That ensures continued interest, even in average pieces.

Conclusion

The 1776–1976 Kennedy half dollar is a coin that sits at the intersection of history, patriotism, and collecting. It is easy to find, affordable to buy, and instantly recognizable. Yet beneath that accessibility lies a spectrum—from circulation finds worth only face value to pristine silver proofs that demand serious premiums.

Every collection benefits from its presence, whether as a reminder of America’s 200th birthday or as part of a complete Kennedy set. The coin captures a moment in U.S. history when the nation looked back on two centuries of independence—and forward to the future.