Kennedy Bicentennial Half Dollar
Return To Index
Drescription: The 1976 Kennedy Bicentennial half dollar, featuring a dual date "1776–1976" on the obverse, commemorates the U.S. Bicentennial with a unique reverse showing Philadelphia's Independence Hall. Designed by Seth G. Huntington, this copper-nickel clad coin was produced for circulation, while 40% silver versions were made for collectors.
Key Features and Design Details
Obverse: Retains the portrait of President John F. Kennedy, designed by Gilroy Roberts, with the dual date "1776-1976" added.
Reverse: Features a detailed illustration of Independence Hall, surrounded by "200 YEARS OF FREEDOM" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA".
Composition: Most were produced in a 75% copper/25% nickel clad composition for circulation, while special 40% silver-clad versions were struck for collectors.
Mint Marks: Coins were produced in Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver ("D"), and San Francisco ("S").
Collector Value: While millions were produced and many remain in circulation (often worth face value), uncirculated or silver versions are more sought after by collectors.
Specific Varieties
Silver Proof/Uncirculated: Produced at the San Francisco mint, these contain 40% silver and have a distinct, shiny finish compared to the copper-nickel clad,, notes CoinWeek and this Amazon listing.
Doubled Die Reverse (DDR): A noted error on some 1976-S proof coins where lettering on the reverse appears doubled, according to APMEX and a YouTube video.
Key Features and Design Details
Obverse: Retains the portrait of President John F. Kennedy, designed by Gilroy Roberts, with the dual date "1776-1976" added.
Reverse: Features a detailed illustration of Independence Hall, surrounded by "200 YEARS OF FREEDOM" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA".
Composition: Most were produced in a 75% copper/25% nickel clad composition for circulation, while special 40% silver-clad versions were struck for collectors.
Mint Marks: Coins were produced in Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver ("D"), and San Francisco ("S").
Collector Value: While millions were produced and many remain in circulation (often worth face value), uncirculated or silver versions are more sought after by collectors.
Specific Varieties
Silver Proof/Uncirculated: Produced at the San Francisco mint, these contain 40% silver and have a distinct, shiny finish compared to the copper-nickel clad,, notes CoinWeek and this Amazon listing.
Doubled Die Reverse (DDR): A noted error on some 1976-S proof coins where lettering on the reverse appears doubled, according to APMEX and a YouTube video.