1964 Kennedy half dollars are 90% silver. Kennedy halves dated 1965 through 1970 are 40% silver. Standard circulation-strike issues from 1971 onward are copper-nickel clad, but special silver collector issues are exceptions.
Start with the date, then identify the issue and finish. A shiny surface or an S mint mark alone does not prove a half dollar contains silver.
Kennedy half dollar silver years at a glance
| Date or issue | Silver content | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| 1964 | 90% | Includes Philadelphia and Denver coins. |
| 1965–1970 | 40% | 1970 issues were made for collector sets rather than general circulation. |
| 1971 onward, standard circulation strikes | No silver | Special silver collector issues must be identified separately. |
| 1776–1976 Bicentennial | Clad or 40% silver | The dual date alone does not identify composition. |
| Later silver collector issues | Varies by issue | Check the original product specifications, not just the date or mint mark. |
Why the silver content changed
The U.S. Mint's 1965 announcement describes the switch from 90% silver to a silver-clad half dollar with 40% silver overall. Its 1971 announcement explains the move to copper-nickel clad coins and notes that 1970 production was for proof and uncirculated sets.
What about a 1967 Kennedy half dollar?
A 1967 Kennedy half is 40% silver. For its silver weight and a worked melt-value example, read our 1967 Kennedy half dollar guide. The price benchmark in that article is dated; use a current silver price when making your own calculation.
Silver exceptions after 1970
Some later Kennedy halves contain silver. The Mint offered 40% silver Bicentennial collector coins alongside the clad versions. Its 2018 Limited Edition Silver Proof Set included a 90% silver Kennedy half, while the 2019 version used 99.9% silver. These examples show why the specific issue matters. Not every proof coin is silver.
How to choose a coin for your collection
Compare the date, mint mark, composition, photographs, and condition notes. For a raw coin, look for disclosed wear, scratches, spots, or toning. For a certified coin, check the grade and identification on the holder. Silver content is only one part of the purchase decision.
Browse our Kennedy half dollars, compare 90% silver coins with 40% silver coins, or explore all half dollars. Inventory changes as individual coins sell; each listing states the composition and whether its photos show the exact coin or representative examples.