An old garage cabinet yielded a shocking discovery recently—a Kennedy Half Dollar without a mint mark that turned out to be an exceptionally rare 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) coin.
What appeared to be an ordinary half dollar turned into a valuable treasure, possibly worth tens of thousands of dollars.
What Makes the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar So Rare?
While millions of 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars were struck, only a handful were produced as part of a Special Mint Set. These SMS coins were minted with a unique satin finish and sharper detail than regular circulation or proof coins.
The absence of a mint mark initially created confusion, but upon closer inspection, the coin’s unique features confirmed it as a rare SMS issue. Fewer than 20 examples of the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar are believed to exist today.
Key Characteristics of the 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
To distinguish a 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar, collectors look for specific features that set it apart from standard coins:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1964 |
| Mint Mark | None (Philadelphia Mint) |
| Finish | Satin-like surface, not mirror-like |
| Strike Quality | Very sharp detail and squared-off rims |
| Metal Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Weight | 12.5 grams |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Special Traits | Polished die marks and bold relief |
These coins were never released to the public in large numbers and were likely struck under special experimental conditions.
Why This Coin Found in a Garage Is Worth a Fortune
The recently discovered half dollar, untouched in a box for decades, checks all the boxes: no mint mark, SMS-style strike, and sharp design details. Such coins, especially in high grades (SP67 or above), have sold for upwards of $40,000 to $80,000 at auction.
The rarity, condition, and unexpected location of the find have made this coin a sensational story in the collecting world.
How to Tell if You Have a Rare SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
If you suspect your 1964 half dollar may be an SMS variety, here’s what to check:
- No mint mark under Kennedy’s neck
- Matte or satin finish instead of shiny mirror proof
- Bold rims and square edges
- Die polish lines visible under magnification
- Sharper features than standard circulation strikes
To confirm, send the coin to a professional grading service that can authenticate its origin and condition.
The discovery of a Kennedy Half Dollar without a mint mark that turned out to be a rare 1964 SMS coin is a reminder that coin collecting is full of surprises. With fewer than two dozen of these coins believed to exist, even a single find can be life-changing.
Whether you’re a collector or simply curious about old change lying around, it’s worth taking a closer look—because one of those coins might just be worth a fortune.
FAQs
Is a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar without a mint mark always valuable?
Not always. Most 1964 half dollars without a mint mark are regular Philadelphia Mint coins. Only those with SMS features are considered rare and highly valuable.
How do I confirm if my coin is an SMS strike?
Check for the satin finish, squared rims, and sharply detailed strike. A professional grading service can certify the coin’s status.
Can I still find valuable coins in circulation or at home?
Absolutely. As this garage cabinet discovery proves, rare and valuable coins can turn up in the most unexpected places—attics, drawers, toolboxes, or inherited collections.