By the time the mid-1980s rolled around, the Kennedy Half Dollar had quietly faded from the spotlight, a relic more remembered than seen. Though the coin rarely exchanged hands in everyday commerce, the U.S. Mint kept producing them – like clockwork – well into the early 2000s. From 1984 through 2001, both the Denver and Philadelphia Mints struck around 20 million half dollars annually, not to fill tills or vending machines, but to satisfy the subtle but steady cravings of collectors.
Then, in 2021, something changed. Without much noise or ceremony, the Federal Reserve resumed placing orders for Kennedy Halves meant for circulation. In 2022, production slowed again. But in 2023, the Mint surprised the community with mintage numbers not seen since the coin’s last commercial heyday in the early 1980s.
Inside the 2023-D Kennedy Half
While it’s technically possible to find a 2023-D Kennedy Half Dollar in bank rolls at face value, the Mint approached its distribution with a different intent. These coins were repackaged and positioned as collector exclusives – far beyond their simple 50-cent denomination.
A two-roll set (containing 40 coins, or $20 in face value) was offered to the public at $34.50. Collectors could also opt for a 200-coin bag priced at $147. What once may have seemed steep is now closer to market reality, proving the Mint understands its modern collector base.
Additionally, the 2023-D Kennedy Half was included in the 2023 United States Mint Uncirculated Coin Set. This set, featuring 20 coins (ten each from the Denver and Philadelphia mints), retailed at launch for $29 – a notable jump from the $5.82 in actual coinage value. Today, these sets often fetch upwards of $40 on the secondary market, underscoring the numismatic value that transcends mere metal.
More Than Just Loose Change
At a glance, the 2023-D Kennedy Half Dollar looks like just another clad coin – copper-nickel over copper, reeded edge, and all. But to collectors, this coin represents something more profound: a bridge between past and present.
Circulated examples don’t command much premium – you can spend them if you’d like. However, uncirculated coins, still in pristine condition, usually sell for around $1.50 each. But with certification and grading, the value proposition changes.
Top-tier pieces graded MS67 generally range from $60 to $80. Drop one grade to MS66, and the price sinks below $25 – sometimes less than the cost of grading itself. So unless your coin is nearly flawless, certification might not be worth the investment.
At present, the finest examples include MS68s graded by PCGS and a handful of MS69s from NGC. While MS69 sounds superior, the collecting community tends to favor PCGS’s stricter grading standards, which influences market demand and prices.
Market Dynamics and Collector Preferences
Auction data reveals a surprising trend. PCGS MS68 coins are consistently commanding higher prices than NGC’s MS69 examples. While this may seem counterintuitive, it reflects the power of perceived rarity and grading authority over technical perfection.
Recent Auction Results
- NGC MS69 #8141107-041 – Sold for $399.95 on eBay, April 10, 2025
- PCGS MS68 #51310409 – Hammered for $1,095 on eBay, February 20, 2025
- PCGS MS68 #51310407 – Realized $995 on eBay, February 13, 2025
Population Report (as of April 2025)
- PCGS MS68: Just 10 examples known
- NGC MS69: 45 total listed
- CAC: Not currently certified in either population
Specifications at a Glance
- Country: United States
- Year: 2023
- Denomination: 50 Cents
- Mintmark: D (Denver)
- Mintage: 27,800,000
- Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel over pure copper core
- Weight: 11.34 grams
- Diameter: 30.60 mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Obverse Designer: Gilroy Roberts
- Reverse Designer: Frank Gasparro
- Strike Type: Business Strike
Conclusion: A Coin Reborn
The 2023-D Kennedy Half Dollar is more than pocket change – it’s a quiet revival of a coin once nearly forgotten. With its roots steeped in mid-20th century commemoration and its modern role shaped by collector demand, this coin exists in a curious limbo – part relic, part revival, and entirely intriguing. It may not circulate widely, but among numismatists, it has carved out a distinct niche, fueled by scarcity, nostalgia, and a touch of speculative allure.
FAQs
Can I still get the 2023-D Kennedy Half Dollar from a bank?
Yes, although it’s hit or miss. Some banks still receive them in Federal Reserve shipments, so it’s worth asking.
Is the 2023-D Kennedy Half Dollar worth anything?
Circulated versions typically hold only face value. However, uncirculated or high-grade examples can be worth much more – especially in MS67 or higher.
How much did the U.S. Mint charge for 2023-D Kennedy Halves?
Two-roll sets (40 coins total) were sold for $34.50, and 200-coin bags were priced at $147.
Why is the PCGS MS68 more valuable than an NGC MS69?
Because PCGS has graded far fewer MS68s, their rarity boosts demand – even over higher numerical grades from NGC.
Was the 2023-D included in the Uncirculated Coin Set?
Yes. It was one of 20 coins in the 2023 Uncirculated Set, representing both Denver and Philadelphia mints.
