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The Certified 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar graded PR68 by PCGS is a remarkable example of the first year of issue of one of America’s most iconic and emotionally resonant coin designs. Introduced in 1964 as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy following his assassination in November 1963, the Kennedy half dollar was conceived, designed, and released in record time. It replaced the Franklin half dollar and became an immediate collector sensation due to the public's deep admiration and mourning for the fallen president. The proof version of the 1964 issue, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, is prized for its mirrored surfaces, sharp strike, and classic mid-century styling. In PR68 condition, certified by the respected Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), this coin offers exceptional quality, high visual appeal, and historical significance.
The design of the Kennedy half dollar was created by two prominent U.S. Mint sculptors. The obverse portrait of John F. Kennedy was designed by Gilroy Roberts, who based his engraving on a presidential medal he had previously created. The reverse was crafted by Frank Gasparro and features a heraldic eagle derived from the Great Seal of the United States, clutching an olive branch and arrows, with a shield at its chest and a ring of 50 stars encircling the design. The obverse carries the inscriptions “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the year 1964, while the reverse includes “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “HALF DOLLAR,” and the national motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Together, the designs convey national strength, mourning, and unity during a time of national crisis.
The 1964 proof Kennedy half dollar was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, as the San Francisco Mint had not yet resumed proof operations. A total of 3,950,762 proof specimens were minted that year as part of the annual proof sets, which were made available to collectors through the U.S. Mint. These proof coins were struck on specially polished planchets using carefully prepared dies, resulting in high-quality mirror-like surfaces and sharp relief. The Kennedy half dollar was the only proof half dollar struck in 90% silver and 10% copper, as the composition changed to 40% silver the following year and then to clad composition in 1971. Thus, 1964 stands alone as the only year the Kennedy half dollar was issued as a 90% silver proof coin, adding to its appeal.
Graded PR68 by PCGS, this 1964 Kennedy half dollar sits near the top of the scale for proof coinage. The PR68 designation indicates a nearly flawless proof with full mirrored fields and sharp details, showing only minor imperfections under magnification. In this grade, the coin will exhibit excellent eye appeal with full luster, sharply defined lettering and devices, and minimal contact marks or blemishes. While PR69 and PR70 examples are technically higher, they are far less common, and PR68 coins offer tremendous value to collectors seeking both beauty and near-perfection in their coins. This grade is especially popular among set builders, who seek high-quality examples of each year and mintmark combination.
Unlike later proofs that often receive additional designations such as "Cameo" or "Deep Cameo," the 1964 proof Kennedy half dollar in PR68 may or may not show significant contrast between the frosted devices and mirrored fields. While cameo examples of the 1964 issue do exist, they are more elusive and command higher premiums. This PR68 example, regardless of contrast designation, will exhibit the strong strike and rich brilliance typical of early Philadelphia proof issues. Many collectors favor the 1964 issue for its clean, bold presentation and the significance it holds as the inaugural proof of the series.
PCGS certification provides added assurance of authenticity, quality, and marketability. Founded in 1986, PCGS is one of the most respected coin grading services in the world, and its certified coins are highly liquid and widely accepted in the numismatic marketplace. The encapsulation protects the coin in a sonically sealed, tamper-evident holder that preserves its condition and provides clear identification of its grade, date, and variety. The label on this coin will read “1964 PR68,” along with a unique serial number for verification and tracking through the PCGS database, adding to the confidence of both collectors and investors.
As the only 90% silver Kennedy half dollar in the proof series, the 1964 issue holds a special place in the lineage of American coinage. Its silver content amounts to 0.3617 troy ounces, which gives it intrinsic value in addition to its collectible worth. However, coins like this certified PR68 specimen trade far above bullion value due to their exceptional quality and collectible status. The 1964 proof is often included in silver proof type sets, Kennedy half dollar date-and-mint collections, or as part of larger collections commemorating key moments in 20th-century U.S. history.
Numismatically, the 1964 Kennedy half dollar stands at the crossroads of modern and classic coinage. It was struck during a transitional time when the U.S. Mint was on the cusp of phasing out silver coins for circulation. The Kennedy half’s immediate popularity created a surge in collecting interest and helped solidify proof sets as a mainstay of U.S. Mint offerings in the decades that followed. Today, the 1964 issue continues to resonate with collectors for its memorial significance, attractive design, and one-year-only composition. Certified examples in high grade like PR68 are especially appealing for their preservation and long-term stability.
In the broader landscape of Kennedy half dollar collecting, the 1964 proof serves as a cornerstone. It marks the beginning of the longest-running commemorative coin in U.S. history—though officially circulating, the Kennedy half dollar has always served a symbolic and memorial function. The PR68 grade ensures the collector receives a visually superior coin without reaching the steep price points of near-perfect specimens, making it ideal for both experienced numismatists and those newer to the hobby.
In conclusion, the Certified 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar PR68 by PCGS is a superbly preserved and beautifully struck coin that captures a moment of national significance with artistic excellence. As the first and only 90% silver proof in the Kennedy series, it holds historical and collectible importance that transcends its silver content. With its high grade, brilliant luster, and professional certification, this coin offers outstanding value and aesthetic appeal. Whether acquired for a type set, a silver proof collection, or as a tribute to President Kennedy’s enduring legacy, this PR68 example stands as a shining testament to American coinage and history.