The Intriguing Value Of 1987 Half Dollars: A Collector's Guide

Curious about the value of a 1987 half dollar?

The 1987 half dollar, officially known as the Kennedy half dollar, is a United States coin worth more than its face value due to its silver content and historical significance.

The coin was first minted in 1964 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy's birth, and it has been produced every year since then. The 1987 half dollar is composed of 40% silver and 60% copper, and it weighs 11.34 grams. The coin's obverse (heads) features a portrait of President Kennedy, while the reverse (tails) depicts the Great Seal of the United States.

The value of a 1987 half dollar varies depending on its condition and whether it was minted in Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco. Uncirculated coins are worth more than circulated coins, and coins minted in San Francisco are generally worth more than those minted in Philadelphia or Denver. According to the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), the average value of a circulated 1987 half dollar is around $1.50, while the average value of an uncirculated coin is around $5.

The 1987 half dollar is a popular coin among collectors, and it is also a good investment. The coin's silver content gives it intrinsic value, and its historical significance makes it a desirable collectible. If you have a 1987 half dollar, it is worth having it appraised by a professional to determine its exact value.

1987 half dollar value

The 1987 half dollar is a United States coin with a value that is determined by several key aspects:

• Composition: 40% silver, 60% copper
• Weight: 11.34 grams
• Diameter: 30.61 mm
• Obverse: Portrait of President John F. Kennedy
• Reverse: Great Seal of the United States
• Mint: Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco

The value of a 1987 half dollar can vary depending on its condition, mint, and whether it was minted for circulation or as a commemorative coin. Uncirculated coins are worth more than circulated coins, and coins minted in San Francisco are generally worth more than those minted in Philadelphia or Denver. Commemorative coins are also worth more than circulation coins, and some special issues can be quite valuable.

The 1987 half dollar is a popular coin among collectors, and it is also a good investment. The coin's silver content gives it intrinsic value, and its historical significance makes it a desirable collectible. If you have a 1987 half dollar, it is worth having it appraised by a professional to determine its exact value.

1. Composition

The composition of the 1987 half dollar, which is 40% silver and 60% copper, has a significant impact on its value. Silver is a precious metal, and its value has been relatively stable over time. Copper is a base metal, and its value is much lower than silver. However, copper is an important component of the coin's composition, as it helps to give the coin its strength and durability.

The silver content of the 1987 half dollar gives it intrinsic value. This means that the coin is worth more than its face value, even if it is melted down and sold for its silver content. The melt value of a 1987 half dollar is currently around $5.00, which is significantly higher than its face value of $0.50.

The copper content of the 1987 half dollar also contributes to its value. Copper is a valuable metal, and it helps to give the coin its distinctive color and luster. The copper content also helps to protect the silver content from tarnishing.

Overall, the composition of the 1987 half dollar is an important factor in determining its value. The silver content gives the coin intrinsic value, while the copper content contributes to its strength, durability, and appearance.

2. Weight

The weight of a 1987 half dollar is 11.34 grams. This is an important factor in determining the coin's value, as it is indicative of the coin's silver content.

• Silver content: The silver content of a 1987 half dollar is 40%. This means that the coin contains 0.40 11.34 = 4.54 grams of silver.
• Melt value: The melt value of a 1987 half dollar is the value of the silver it contains. The current spot price of silver is $22.50 per ounce. This means that the melt value of a 1987 half dollar is 4.54 22.50 / 31.10 = $3.18.
• Numismatic value: The numismatic value of a 1987 half dollar is the value it has as a collectible coin. This value is determined by a number of factors, including the coin's condition, rarity, and historical significance.
• Overall value: The overall value of a 1987 half dollar is the sum of its melt value and its numismatic value. In general, the melt value of a 1987 half dollar is higher than its numismatic value. However, there are some rare and valuable 1987 half dollars that can sell for a significant premium over their melt value.

Overall, the weight of a 1987 half dollar is an important factor in determining its value. The coin's weight is indicative of its silver content, which in turn affects its melt value and numismatic value.

3. Diameter

The diameter of a 1987 half dollar is 30.61 mm, or 1.205 inches. This is an important factor in determining the coin's value, as it is indicative of the coin's size and weight.

• Size: The diameter of a coin is a measure of its size. A larger coin is generally worth more than a smaller coin, as it contains more metal. The 1987 half dollar is a relatively large coin, which contributes to its value.
• Weight: The diameter of a coin is also a factor in determining its weight. A larger coin is generally heavier than a smaller coin, as it contains more metal. The 1987 half dollar is a relatively heavy coin, which also contributes to its value.
• Rarity: The diameter of a coin can also be a factor in determining its rarity. A coin with a smaller diameter is generally more rare than a coin with a larger diameter, as it was produced in smaller quantities. The 1987 half dollar is a relatively common coin, but there are some rare varieties that can sell for a significant premium.
• Collectibility: The diameter of a coin can also be a factor in determining its collectibility. A coin with a larger diameter is generally more collectible than a coin with a smaller diameter, as it is more visually appealing. The 1987 half dollar is a popular coin among collectors, and its large diameter is one of the factors that contributes to its collectibility.

Overall, the diameter of a 1987 half dollar is an important factor in determining its value. The coin's diameter is indicative of its size, weight, rarity, and collectibility, all of which can affect its value.

4. Obverse

The obverse (heads) of the 1987 half dollar features a portrait of President John F. Kennedy. This is a significant factor in determining the coin's value, as it is a popular and iconic design.

• Historical significance: President Kennedy was a popular and charismatic figure, and his assassination in 1963 was a national tragedy. The 1987 half dollar was issued to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Kennedy's birth, and it is a reminder of his legacy.
• Artistic merit: The portrait of President Kennedy on the 1987 half dollar is a well-executed work of art. The coin's designer, Gilroy Roberts, was a renowned sculptor and engraver, and his work on the Kennedy half dollar is considered to be one of his finest achievements.
• Collectibility: The 1987 half dollar is a popular coin among collectors, and the Kennedy portrait is one of the reasons why. The coin is attractive and well-made, and it is a reminder of a significant historical figure.
• Value: The Kennedy portrait on the 1987 half dollar contributes to the coin's value. The coin is worth more than its face value, and it is a good investment for collectors.

Overall, the obverse portrait of President John F. Kennedy is an important factor in determining the value of the 1987 half dollar. The coin's historical significance, artistic merit, collectibility, and value are all enhanced by the presence of Kennedy's portrait.

5. Reverse

The reverse (tails) of the 1987 half dollar features the Great Seal of the United States. This is a significant factor in determining the coin's value, as it is a symbol of the United States and its history.

The Great Seal was adopted by the Continental Congress in 1782, and it has been used on official documents and coins ever since. The seal features an eagle with a shield on its chest, and it is surrounded by the words "E Pluribus Unum" (Out of Many, One). The eagle represents the United States, and the shield represents the states that make up the Union. The words "E Pluribus Unum" represent the unity of the states.

The Great Seal is an important symbol of the United States, and its presence on the 1987 half dollar adds to the coin's value. The coin is a reminder of the history of the United States, and it is a symbol of the country's strength and unity.

Overall, the presence of the Great Seal of the United States on the reverse of the 1987 half dollar is an important factor in determining the coin's value. The seal is a symbol of the United States and its history, and it adds to the coin's collectibility and value.

6. Mint

The mint mark on a 1987 half dollar indicates where the coin was minted. The three mints that produced 1987 half dollars are Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D mint mark), and San Francisco (S mint mark). The mint mark is located on the reverse of the coin, below the eagle.

The mint mark can affect the value of a 1987 half dollar. Coins minted in San Francisco are generally worth more than coins minted in Philadelphia or Denver. This is because San Francisco minted fewer 1987 half dollars than the other two mints. As a result, San Francisco 1987 half dollars are more scarce and valuable.

For example, a circulated 1987 half dollar minted in Philadelphia is worth around $1.50, while a circulated 1987 half dollar minted in San Francisco is worth around $2.50. The difference in value is due to the scarcity of the San Francisco mint mark.

If you have a 1987 half dollar, it is important to check the mint mark to determine its value. Coins minted in San Francisco are worth more than coins minted in Philadelphia or Denver.

1987 Half Dollar Value FAQs

This section addresses commonly asked questions regarding the value of 1987 half dollars, providing comprehensive and informative answers.

7. Question 1: What factors influence the value of a 1987 half dollar?

The value of a 1987 half dollar is determined by several key factors, including its condition, mint mark, and whether it was minted for circulation or as a commemorative coin. Uncirculated coins are worth more than circulated coins, and coins minted in San Francisco are generally worth more than those minted in Philadelphia or Denver. Commemorative coins are also worth more than circulation coins, and some special issues can be quite valuable.

8. Question 2: What is the composition of a 1987 half dollar?

1987 half dollars are composed of 40% silver and 60% copper, giving them intrinsic value due to their silver content.

9. Question 3: How much is a 1987 half dollar worth?

The value of a 1987 half dollar can vary depending on its condition, mint mark, and whether it was minted for circulation or as a commemorative coin. Generally, circulated 1987 half dollars are worth around $1.50, while uncirculated coins can be worth $5 or more. Commemorative 1987 half dollars can be worth significantly more, depending on their rarity and condition.

10. Question 4: Are 1987 half dollars rare?

1987 half dollars are not particularly rare in circulated condition. However, certain mint marks and commemorative issues can be scarce and valuable.

11. Question 5: Where can I sell a 1987 half dollar?

You can sell a 1987 half dollar to a coin dealer, at a coin show, or online through platforms like eBay. It is important to have your coin evaluated by a professional to determine its exact value before selling it.

By understanding these key factors, you can better assess the value of your 1987 half dollar and make informed decisions about buying, selling, or collecting these coins.

For further information or a professional appraisal, it is recommended to consult with a reputable coin dealer or numismatic expert.

Conclusion

The 1987 half dollar holds significant value for collectors and investors alike. Its unique composition, historical significance, and design elements contribute to its desirability. The coin's silver content provides intrinsic value, while its commemoration of President John F. Kennedy and the Great Seal of the United States adds to its collectible nature.

Understanding the factors that influence the value of a 1987 half dollar, such as its condition, mint mark, and rarity, allows for informed decision-making when buying, selling, or collecting these coins. Consulting with reputable coin dealers or numismatic experts is recommended for accurate appraisals and guidance.

In conclusion, the 1987 half dollar stands as a valuable piece of American coinage, combining historical significance, artistic merit, and investment potential. Its enduring popularity ensures its place as a cherished collectible and a tangible connection to the past.