Description
Designed by Gilroy Roberts and Frank Gasparro, the Kennedy Half initially had a composition of 90% silver an 10% copper but shortly after it would eventually have a composition of 75% copper & 25% nickel.
The obverse, designed by Gilroy Roberts, features a portrait of John F. Kennedy facing left with the inscription LIBERTY on the outer periphery above the portrait. Just below bust is the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. Beginning in 1968, obverse mint marks S & D (San Francisco & Denver) were added. Philadelphia issues eventually would carry a P mint mark from 1980 onward.
The reverse, designed by Frank Gasparro, features the Presidential Seal. On the outer periphery are the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and HALF DOLLAR. For 1964 Denver only issues, a mint mark of D can be found just below the left claw of the eagle. Mint marks were moved to the obverse beginning in 1968.
Types and Varieties
Type 1 – Silver Composition
* Variety 1: 1964, 90% Silver 10% Copper, weight 12.5 grams
* Variety 2: 1965 to 1970, Outer layer 80% silver, 20% copper. Inner core 20% silver, 80% copper (composition is known as silver clad), weight 11.5 grams