The 1983-D Kennedy Half Dollar is a popular coin among collectors due to its historical significance and unique minting characteristics. Struck at the Denver Mint, this coin features John F. Kennedy’s iconic portrait and is made of a copper-nickel clad composition. Although it is not a silver coin, some higher-grade specimens and rare errors make it desirable for collectors.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 1983-D Kennedy Half Dollar’s history, value, minting details, and collector appeal.
History of the Kennedy Half Dollar
The Kennedy Half Dollar series was first introduced in 1964, following the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963. The U.S. Mint quickly designed and issued this coin to honor Kennedy’s legacy. The original 1964 half dollars were made of 90% silver, but from 1965 to 1970, they contained 40% silver.
By 1971, the U.S. Mint removed silver completely, replacing it with a copper-nickel clad composition. The 1983-D Kennedy Half Dollar is part of this non-silver era, making it more common but still valuable in higher grades.
1983-D Kennedy Half Dollar Specifications
- Mint: Denver (D mintmark)
- Composition: Copper-nickel clad (75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper core)
- Weight: 11.34 grams
- Diameter: 30.6 mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Obverse (Front): Features John F. Kennedy’s portrait, designed by Gilroy Roberts
- Reverse (Back): Displays the Presidential Seal, designed by Frank Gasparro
- Mintage: 32,472,244 coins
How Much Is the 1983-D Kennedy Half Dollar Worth?
The 1983-D Kennedy Half Dollar is relatively common, but its value depends on its condition (grade) and any rare errors. Here’s what you can expect:
Circulated Condition (Worn Coins)
- Face Value: $0.50 (spendable)
- Average Circulated Value: $1.00 – $2.00
Uncirculated Condition (Mint State – MS Grades)
- MS60 – MS63: $3 – $6
- MS64 – MS65: $7 – $12
- MS66: $35 – $50
- MS67: $500+ (Rare)
Proof and Special Varieties
- The 1983-D Kennedy Half Dollar was NOT issued in proof sets, as proof coins were only minted in San Francisco (S mintmark).
- No silver versions of this coin exist.
1983-D Kennedy Half Dollar Errors and Varieties
Some error coins can increase the value significantly. Look out for:
- Double Die Obverse (DDO) – Some coins show slight doubling on the letters or date, which can be valuable.
- Off-Center Strikes – Coins with noticeable off-center designs can be worth $50 – $500, depending on how severe the misalignment is.
- Clipped Planchet – If a piece of the coin is missing due to a minting error, it could be worth $20 – $200.
- Struck Through Errors – Coins that show a portion of foreign material (such as grease) affecting the strike can carry a premium.
Conclusion
The 1983-D Kennedy Half Dollar may not be rare in circulated condition, but in high grades (MS66+), it becomes a valuable collector’s item. While it lacks silver, collectors still seek it for its historical significance, error varieties, and attractive design. If you come across a well-preserved or error version, it might be worth much more than face value!