A Hidden Fortune in Dusty Corners
That old toolbox in your grandpa’s garage might be hiding more than rusty nails—it could hold a Kennedy half-dollar worth over $50,000. The 1964 Kennedy half-dollar, especially those with a rare minting error, is a prize for coin collectors. Known as the 1964 Accented Hair Kennedy half-dollar, this coin’s unique flaw makes it a treasure. Experts say many of these coins are still out there, tucked away in forgotten toolboxes, drawers, or family heirlooms. Here’s how to spot one before it’s too late.
Why This Coin Is Worth So Much
The 1964 Kennedy half-dollar was minted to honor President John F. Kennedy after his assassination. Some of the earliest coins had a mistake: the hair on Kennedy’s portrait looked heavier or “accented” due to a design error. Only a small batch of these error coins was made, and they’re now super rare. In 2024, one sold for $52,000 at auction, and top-quality versions could go for even more. Collectors love these coins for their history and scarcity, making them a big deal.
How to Spot the $50,000 Coin
You don’t need to be a pro to find this coin, but you’ll need to look closely. Check for a 1964 Kennedy half-dollar, which has Kennedy’s face on the front and an eagle on the back. The key is the hair above Kennedy’s ear—it should look thicker or more detailed than on regular 1964 coins. Also, look for the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” to appear slightly sharper. A magnifying glass can help, but the accented hair is usually easy to spot. Make sure it’s dated 1964 with no mint mark, meaning it was made in Philadelphia.
| Feature to Look For | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1964 |
| Mint Mark | None (Philadelphia Mint) |
| Hair Detail | Thick, heavy hair above Kennedy’s ear |
| Side | Front (obverse) of the coin |
Where It Might Be Hiding
These coins could be anywhere your family stashed spare change decades ago. Old toolboxes, coffee cans, or even sewing kits are common hiding spots. Since the 1964 Kennedy half-dollar was widely circulated, many were saved as keepsakes after Kennedy’s death. Check your grandparents’ attic, basement, or any place they stored odds and ends. Flea markets, estate sales, or inherited coin collections are also great places to look. You might find a fortune in a dusty corner.
Tips for Finding the Coin
- Search through old containers like toolboxes or jars.
- Check family heirlooms or saved coins from the 1960s.
- Use a magnifying glass to examine Kennedy’s hair detail.
- Compare your coin to online photos of the Accented Hair variety.
- Take any promising finds to a coin dealer for a professional opinion.
Don’t Wait—Get It Checked
If you think you’ve found a 1964 Accented Hair Kennedy half-dollar, act fast. Take it to a trusted coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC to confirm it’s real. Counterfeits and regular 1964 coins are common, so an expert’s opinion is key. A genuine error coin could be worth tens of thousands, even in average condition. Before you toss out grandpa’s old toolbox or give away his coin jar, take a moment to look—you might be holding a $50,000 treasure.
