Price Guide for 1978 Half Dollar Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $9.00 – $1,725.00
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eBayUncirculated: $2.02 – $609.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1.00 – $10.00Uncirculated: $5.00 – $450.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $7.00 – $3,760.00
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eBayCirculated: $6.50 – $18.00Uncirculated: $2.84 – $2,880.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1.00 – $10.00Uncirculated: $5.00 – $3,750.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $825.00Uncirculated: $7.00 – $575.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $299.98
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 – $55.00
Design and Specifications of the 1978 Half Dollar
The 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar continued the series that began in 1964 to honor the assassinated President John F. Kennedy. This coin marked the 15th year of the Kennedy Half Dollar, which had seen a significant reduction in circulation due to hoarding and the increasing use of dollar bills for transactions.
By 1978, the half dollar had largely disappeared from everyday commerce, primarily being struck for collectors rather than for circulation purposes. This shift in usage reflects the changing landscape of American coinage during the late 20th century.
| Weight | 11.34 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 30.61 mm |
| Mint Marks | D, S (proof only) |
| Composition | 91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel clad over pure copper core |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of John F. Kennedy, designed by Gilroy Roberts |
| Reverse Design | Presidential Seal, designed by Frank Gasparro |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1978 Kennedy Half Dollars. While generally common, coins in pristine condition can command significant premiums. For circulation strikes, coins graded MS65 and above are desirable, with MS67 and MS68 examples being particularly valuable.
For proof coins, the difference between a PR69 and a perfect PR70 can be substantial in terms of value. Cameo and Deep Cameo contrast on proof coins can also significantly enhance their desirability and value.
Mintage: 14,451,540
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS66, scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low to Moderate, primarily from date and mint mark collectors
Mintage: 3,127,781
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to PR69, scarce in PR70
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low to Moderate, mainly from proof set collectors
Luster quality is an important factor for uncirculated 1978 Half Dollars. Coins with strong, original mint luster are more desirable to collectors. Strike quality also affects value, with well-struck coins showing full detail on Kennedy’s hair and the eagle’s feathers being more valuable.
While not typically known for attractive toning, any 1978 Half Dollar with exceptional, natural toning could command a premium. Additionally, error coins, such as those with significant die cracks, off-center strikes, or doubled dies (though rare for this year), could be valuable to specialized collectors.
