Kennedy 50c Clad, 1971- PR [Type]

Designers: Obverse: Gilroy Roberts; Reverse: Frank Gasparro. Weight: 11.34 grams. Composition: Outer layers of copper-nickel (.750 copper, .250 nickel) bonded to inner core of pure copper. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Edge: Reeded. Mints: Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco.

Key to Collecting: This type, produced in 1971 and continued to the present time with the exception of the 1776-1976 Bicentennial issue, followed suit with other previously silver denominations. The new composition struck up well, and the pieces made were and are quite pleasing to the eye. Circulated examples are as common as can be, but not in general circulation, where the quarter dollar has virtually replaced the half dollar denomination. For type set purposes, choose a Mint State or Proof coin as both are plentiful and inexpensive. Today, a full specialized set of dates and mints, from the first clad Kennedy half to the present, is very impressive and includes well over 100 different varieties. A few die varieties are listed in the Red Book and can be added if desired. A special two-coin set released by the U.S. Mint celebrating the 50th anniversary of the design in 2014 led to High Relief versions being struck at Philadelphia and Denver.

In numismatic periodicals as well as on the Internet, there is always a lot of information about current Kennedy halves—their market values, grades, and, less often, the technical aspects of dies. Stay tuned. The panorama of coinage is constantly changing—great news for type-set collectors. Eventually, the 1971-to-date Kennedy half dollar type is likely to be replaced with a different one. In the meantime, it is scheduled for a one-year replacement in 2026.

For 2026 only, the Kennedy obverse will be supplanted by a new design under the Semiquincentennial Commemorative Coin Act. In addition to a series of commemorative coins and medals, the Mint will produce special circulating coins with one-yearonly designs. The dual dates 1776–2026 will be used on all denominations. The cent and the nickel will otherwise retain their original designs. The dime, quarter, and half dollar will feature entirely new motifs based on the respective denomination’s unique theme. The half dollar theme will ponder what is required to maintain the Republic for the next 250 years.

Aspects of Striking and Appearance: Usually well struck and attractive.

Proof Coins: Usually well struck and attractive. Some have frosted surfaces.