1971 Kennedy Half Dollar (Circulated)

United States Mint (Philadelphia or Denver) · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins/Currency

1971 Kennedy Half Dollar (Circulated)

Era / Decade

Early 1970s (Dated 1971)

Material

Copper-Nickel Clad (Outer layers of 75% copper, 25% nickel; Inner core of pure copper). Contains no silver.

Condition

Good to Very Good (Circulated). Visible surface scratches, minor dings on the rim, and general wear from circulation. Natural toning and slight grime buildup.

Demand Level

Low. Because 1971 saw high mintage numbers and this specimen is heavily circulated, it is common and easily found in circulation or bank rolls.

Resale Value

Estimated Resale Value

$0.50 - $2.00

Estimated Retail Value

$0.50 - $1.00

Comparable Sales

Recent eBay sales for individual circulated 1971 half dollars range from $1.50 to $3.00 (mostly covering shipping costs). Bulk rolls of 20 coins typically sell for $12.00 to $15.00.

Description

Authentic 1971 United States Kennedy Half Dollar. Features the profile of President John F. Kennedy on the obverse and the Presidential Seal on the reverse. This particular coin is from the first year the U.S. Mint transitioned the half dollar from 40% silver to the copper-nickel clad composition.

Key Features

First year of the non-silver clad composition; highly recognizable American coinage; popular with beginner collectors or for use in historical education sets.

Authenticity Indicators

Weight, diameter, and reed edges match U.S Mint specifications. The date '1971' is clear. No red flags for counterfeiting. Confidence level: High.

Flaws to Note

Heavy circulation wear; surface abrasions and bag marks; lack of luster; no silver content (post-1970). Not a high-grade specimen.

Selling Guide

Where to Sell

Best sold as part of a bulk coin lot on eBay or Mercari. Local coin shops may buy it, but often only for face value unless it is in pristine uncirculated condition.

Selling Tips

Do NOT clean this coin, as cleaning reduces numismatic value. Bundle this with other vintage coins to make the shipping cost worthwhile. Use 'Kennedy Half Dollar', '1971', and 'US Coin' in your keywords.

Appraised on 6/23/2026
1971 Kennedy Half Dollar (Circulated) - United States Mint (Philadelphia or Denver) | Thrift Scanner