The 1964 United States half-dollar is a significant and highly sought-after coin among collectors and investors alike. Struck in 90% silver, this coin was produced in large numbers before the U.S. government ceased production of silver coinage, making it a valuable and historically significant piece of American currency.
The 1964 half-dollar was part of a larger shift in U.S. currency policy that began in the early 1960s. At that time, rising silver prices and a growing demand for silver coinage had put pressure on the U.S. government’s supply of the precious metal. In response, the U.S. government began phasing out silver from its coinage, replacing it with cheaper and more abundant metals like copper and nickel.
Despite this shift away from silver, the 1964 half-dollar was produced in large numbers and remains a popular and highly coveted coin among collectors. This is due in part to its historical significance as one of the last silver coins produced by the U.S. government, but also because of its unique design and striking visual appeal.
Designed by then U.S. mint engraver-sculptor Gilroy Roberts, the obverse of the 1964 half-dollar features a portrait of the late president, who had been assassinated just months before the coin’s production. The reverse of the coin engraved by then Assistant Engraver for the U.S. mint, Frank Gasparro, features a rendition of the Great Seal of the United States, with an eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons.
In addition to its unique design, the 1964 half-dollar is also valued for its silver content, which gives the coin an intrinsic value above and beyond its face value of 50 cents. As of early 2023, the melt value of a 1964 half-dollar is around $8, which is significantly higher than its face value.
However, it’s important to note that not all 1964 half-dollars are created equal. Due to high demand from collectors and investors, many of these coins have been hoarded or removed from circulation, making them more scarce and valuable than others. Coins that are in excellent condition, with no signs of wear or damage, can command even higher prices than those that are less well-preserved.
In addition to their value as collectible and investment pieces, the 1964 half-dollar and other silver coins from the era have also played an important role in the history of American currency. The shift away from silver coinage and toward cheaper metals like copper and nickel helped to stabilize the U.S. economy and ensure a steady supply of coins for everyday use. This, in turn, helped to lay the foundation for the modern U.S. monetary system, which relies on a stable and flexible currency to support economic growth and stability.
The 1964 half-dollar’s unique design, silver content, and role in the evolution of American currency make it a valuable and enduring piece of U.S. history. Whether you’re a collector looking to add to your collection or an investor seeking a stable and tangible asset, the 1964 half-dollar is a coin that is sure to continue to captivate and inspire for years to come.
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