Kennedy Half Dollar Found in Time Capsule : In a stunning discovery that has numismatists and collectors buzzing, a rare Kennedy half dollar unearthed from a 1960s time capsule has been appraised at a value exceeding that of an average American home. The coin, one of the first struck after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, turned out to be an ultra-rare 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) half dollar with an astonishingly high grade—making it one of the most valuable modern coins in existence.
The Discovery: A Blast from the Past
The time capsule, buried in 1965 by a local historical society in a small Midwestern town, was recently opened as part of a community celebration. Among old newspapers, photographs, and memorabilia was a small envelope containing a single 1964 Kennedy half dollar. At first glance, it appeared to be an ordinary coin, but upon closer inspection, experts realized it was no ordinary piece of change.
Why Is This Coin So Valuable?
Most 1964 Kennedy half dollars were struck in 90% silver and are worth around $10–$20 in circulated condition. However, this particular coin was part of a Special Mint Set (SMS), a small batch of coins struck with exceptional detail and mirror-like finishes. These were experimental issues, and very few survived in pristine condition.
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Ultra-High Grade: This coin was graded PCGS MS68+, one of the finest known examples.
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Rarity: Only a handful of 1964 SMS half dollars exist, and most are in lower grades.
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Historical Significance: As one of the first Kennedy half dollars ever minted, it holds immense sentimental and collectible value.
Recent auction records show that a 1964 SMS half dollar in MS67 sold for $108,000 in 2021. Given that this newly discovered coin is in even better condition, experts estimate its value could exceed $250,000—more than the median price of a U.S. home.
What’s Next for the Coin?
The local historical society is now faced with a major decision: keep the coin as a museum piece or auction it to fund community projects. Either way, this unexpected treasure has turned a simple time capsule opening into a life-changing event. For coin collectors, the discovery is a reminder that rare treasures can still be found in the most unexpected places—even in an old, forgotten time capsule.
Would you keep the coin or sell it? Let us know in the comments!
FAQs: Kennedy Half Dollar Found in Time Capsule Is Worth More Than House
1. How much is the Kennedy half-dollar from the time capsule worth?
The Kennedy half-dollar discovered in the time capsule is reportedly worth more than the median price of a house in some U.S. markets. While exact valuations depend on rarity, condition, and year, some rare Kennedy half-dollars (such as the 1970-D or 1964 Special Mint Sets) can fetch six or seven figures at auction.
2. Why is this particular half-dollar so valuable?
The coin’s extreme value likely stems from its rarity, minting errors, or historical significance. For example:
- Low mintage years (like 1970-D, where only 2.1 million were struck)
- Proof or special mint sets in pristine condition
- Unique errors (double dies, missing initials, etc.)
- Historical ties (if linked to a significant event or provenance)
3. Where was the time capsule found, and how old was it?
The time capsule was reportedly uncovered during a demolition or renovation project, though specifics vary by report. If the capsule dates back to the 1960s or 1970s, the coin could be a first-year issue (1964) or a rare silver composition piece, increasing its value.
4. What should I do if I find a rare coin in a time capsule?
- Do not clean it (cleaning can drastically reduce value).
- Store it in a protective holder (like a coin flip or slab).
- Get it authenticated by a professional grading service (PCGS, NGC).
- Consult a reputable auction house (Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers) for appraisal.