Does the US still make half dollar coins?
Michael Gray
Updated on April 09, 2026
In 1971, the Mint removed silver from the half dollar and the composition became copper-nickel clad. Since 2002, half dollars have been minted primarily for annual coin sets and other numismatic products. However, the Federal Reserve may still order them for circulation.
Are Kennedy half dollars still minted?
The Kennedy half dollar, first minted in 1964, is a fifty-cent coin currently issued by the United States Mint. Intended as a memorial to the assassinated 35th President of the United States John F. Kennedy, it was authorized by Congress just over a month after his death….Kennedy half dollar.
| Years of minting | 1964–present |
| Obverse |
|---|
Why are there no half dollars?
By 2002, demand was virtually non-existent so the Mint decided starting that year that any Kennedy Half Dollars produced would be made for rolls and bags as well as for other Numismatic products to be purchased from the Mint. Thus, the coin disappeared from circulation.
How can I get a new half dollar coin?
You can find silver half dollars at your local bank, in antique shops or flea markets, or via professional coin dealers. Recognizing the markers of silver half dollars and where you’re likely to find them will help you find more rare coins when expanding your collection.
Do banks still have 50 cent pieces?
The fifty cent piece is one of the most common coins in US history, and was very widely used up until about 50 years ago, but it has effectively disappeared from circulation. So maybe if you go to the bank and ask for any half dollars they have, you’ll get some of these older ones.
When did the US Mint stop making half dollars?
They were produced in fairly large quantities until the year 2002, when the U.S. Mint ceased production of the coin for general circulation. As a result of its decreasing usage, many pre-2002 half dollars remain in Federal Reserve vaults, prompting the change in production.
Where was the 1970 half dollar coin made?
The Philadelphia mint did not produce any half dollars in 1970. The mint produced coins in San Francisco with a Proof finish for inclusion the 1970 Proof set. The coins minted in Denver were business strike quality and included in United States Uncirculated Mint Sets.
Where can you find a half dollar coin?
Half dollar coins were once commonly seen in casinos but are less popular now that most slot machines aren’t coin-operated. Quarters meanwhile became the most convenient and widespread denomination favored by manufacturers of vending machines, arcade chassis, and washers and dryers at laundromats in the late 20th century.
Who is on the obverse of a half dollar?
Since 2002, half dollars have been minted each year as part of annual coin sets and other numismatic products but not released into circulation. Other Circulating Coins: Obverse (heads): Shows a profile of President John F. Kennedy based on a portrait prepared for his presidential medal.
