Kennedy Half Dollars Clad and Silver Proof 1971 to Date

About This Series

Transitioning from 40% silver to copper-nickel clad in 1971, the Kennedy half dollar entered its longest production phase. Gilroy Roberts' portrait and Frank Gasparro's presidential coat of arms reverse maintain the emotional connection to the 35th president. The bicentennial 1776-1976 issue introduced Seth Huntington's Independence Hall reverse in both clad and 40% silver. Silver proof versions returned in 1992 when San Francisco began .900 fine silver proofs for annual Silver Proof Sets, later transitioning to .999 fine. Production for general circulation has been sporadic since 2002, with most pieces struck for collector sets rather than Federal Reserve distribution. Collectors pursue the 1972 No FG variety (missing Gasparro's initials), various doubled die obverses, and the scarce 1998-S Matte Finish silver Kennedy from the Robert F. Kennedy commemorative set. At 11.34 grams and 30.61 mm in clad, the series offers accessibility for beginners while providing enough key dates for specialist interest.