An Unexpected Find
Last winter, a Minnesota woman cleaning out her late grandfather’s garage stumbled upon a life-changing discovery. Emily Larson, 28, found a small tin in his old toolbox containing a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar now valued at over $50,000. “I thought it was just loose change,” Larson said, shaking her head. The rare coin, tucked away for decades, has sparked excitement among collectors and sent Larson’s family on a quest to learn its story. It’s proof that treasures can hide in the most unexpected places.
Why This Coin Is So Valuable
The Kennedy Half Dollar was first minted in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy after his assassination. Most were made of silver, but the 1964 version has a rare variation: a small batch struck with 90% silver and a unique “accented hair” design. This error, where extra lines appear in Kennedy’s hair, makes the coin a collector’s gem. Experts estimate fewer than 100 of these exist, driving their value sky-high. Larson’s coin, found in pristine condition, is a rare piece of American history.
How to Spot the Rare Coin
If you’re wondering if you have a $50,000 Kennedy Half Dollar, check these details:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1964 |
| Material | 90% silver |
| Design Error | Accented hair (extra lines in Kennedy’s hair) |
| Mint Mark | “D” (Denver) or none (Philadelphia) |
| Condition | Higher value for uncirculated or mint condition |
If you find a coin matching these traits, don’t clean it—cleaning can lower its value. Take it to a professional appraiser for authentication.
A Family Heirloom Turned Fortune
Larson’s discovery has her family buzzing with stories about her grandfather, a mechanic who loved collecting coins. They believe he stashed the Kennedy Half Dollar away, unaware of its true worth. Now, coin shops across the country report more people bringing in old collections, hoping to find their own treasure. “This coin is a reminder that hidden gems are still out there,” said Mark Reynolds, a coin expert in Minneapolis. Social media is also abuzz, with collectors sharing tips on spotting rare Kennedy coins.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve got a 1964 accented hair Kennedy Half Dollar, keep it safe and contact a reputable coin dealer. Organizations like the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) can verify its authenticity and grade its condition. Larson’s coin is under review, and if confirmed, it could fetch over $50,000 at auction. “I’m thinking about saving for my kids’ future or maybe taking a dream vacation,” she said, smiling. Her find has turned a bittersweet task into a thrilling opportunity.
Check Your Old Boxes
This story shows that family heirlooms can hold surprising value. The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is just one of many rare coins still hiding in attics, toolboxes, or forgotten jars. Other valuable coins, like the 1943 copper penny or 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, might also be out there. “Always look closely at old coins,” Reynolds advises. “You could be holding a piece of history.” So next time you’re sorting through a loved one’s belongings, take a moment to check for shiny treasures you might uncover a fortune.
