1965 Kennedy Half Dollar Special Mint Set: A Collector’s Guide

The 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar holds a special place in the hearts of collectors, especially when it comes to those found in Special Mint Sets (SMS). Released during a time of transition in U.S. coinage, this half dollar offers a fascinating story and remains a highly sought-after item in numismatic circles. In this guide, we’ll dive into the history, rarity, and value of the 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar, specifically focusing on the SMS version.

The Background of the 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar

In 1964, the U.S. Mint introduced the Kennedy Half Dollar to honor President John F. Kennedy, who had been assassinated the previous year. The coin quickly became popular, both as a tribute and as a collector’s item. Originally, the half dollar was made of 90% silver, but due to a growing silver shortage, the U.S. Mint made significant changes in 1965.

What is a Special Mint Set (SMS)?

In 1965, the U.S. Mint created Special Mint Sets as an alternative to traditional proof sets. Proof coins were struck multiple times using polished dies, resulting in high-quality, mirror-like finishes. However, because of the higher cost of producing proof coins and the strain on the Mint, a new method was devised for the 1965, 1966, and 1967 years. SMS coins were struck with special dies to achieve a similar high-quality appearance without the extensive process required for proof coins.

Why the 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar SMS is Special

The 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar SMS is one of the standout coins in this series. Although the coin’s design remained the same as the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, the change in composition and the method of minting set the SMS coins apart from the regular issues. What makes the 1965 SMS particularly noteworthy is the fact that only a limited number of these sets were produced, making them much rarer than their circulation counterparts.

The Kennedy Half Dollar SMS from 1965 is characterized by its slightly frosted, yet reflective finish. The coin’s features, including President Kennedy’s profile and the eagle on the reverse, appear with sharp detail, giving it a unique visual appeal. This sharp contrast between the frosted and reflective surfaces is a hallmark of SMS coins.

Value and Rarity of the 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar SMS

The 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar SMS is highly sought after by collectors due to its limited mintage and distinct appearance. While it is not as valuable as other more famous coins like the 1964 Proof Kennedy Half Dollar or other silver coinage, it still commands a premium price in the market. The value of the coin can range depending on its condition, with coins in mint condition typically fetching between $20 and $60.

How to Spot a 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar SMS

While the 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar SMS is distinguishable from regular circulation coins, it can sometimes be difficult to spot a true SMS coin without close inspection. The key differences include:

1. Finish: SMS coins have a frosted, semi-reflective finish, unlike the flat, dull surfaces of regular circulation coins.
2. Sharpness of Detail: The design elements, particularly the features of Kennedy’s portrait and the eagle, are much sharper on an SMS coin.
3. Packaging: Coins from the Special Mint Set were typically sold in clear plastic cases, which is an important feature to consider when determining authenticity.

Conclusion

The 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar SMS is a beautiful and collectible piece of U.S. numismatic history. As part of a transitional period in American coinage, this coin represents both a tribute to a fallen president and a change in the methods of coin production. Whether you’re an experienced numismatist or a new collector, the 1965 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar is a fantastic addition to any collection.

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