Price Guide for 1980 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: $2.00 – $4,935.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $577.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1.00 – $10.00Uncirculated: $5.00 – $4,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $874.00 – $1,035.00Uncirculated: $1.00 – $1,150.00
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eBayCirculated: $4.99Uncirculated: $0.99 – $168.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1.00 – $10.00Uncirculated: $5.00 – $110.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $920.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $265.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 – $50.00
Design and Specifications of the 1980 Half Dollar
The 1980 Kennedy Half Dollar continued the series that began in 1964 to honor the assassinated President John F. Kennedy. This coin marked a significant shift in U.S. coinage production and distribution, as it was not released for general circulation but was only available in mint sets and through banks upon request.
| Weight | 11.34 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 30.61 mm |
| Mint Marks | P, D, S |
| Composition | 91.67% Copper, 8.33% Nickel clad over pure copper core |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of John F. Kennedy facing left, designed by Gilroy Roberts |
| Reverse Design | Presidential Coat of Arms, designed by Frank Gasparro |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1980 Kennedy Half Dollars, especially for circulation strikes. Due to their limited release, many coins remain in uncirculated condition. MS65 and above grades are relatively common, but coins with exceptional eye appeal, deep cameo contrast (for proofs), or full bell lines (FBL) can command premiums.
For proof coins, grades of PR69 and PR70 are highly sought after by collectors seeking perfection. The presence of deep cameo contrast can significantly increase the value of proof specimens.
Mintage: 33,463,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in high grades due to limited circulation
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to series collectors
Mintage: 33,456,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in high grades due to limited circulation
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to series collectors
Mintage: 3,554,806
Rarity Scale: Common for proofs
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in high grades due to careful handling
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, appealing to proof set collectors
Several factors can influence the value of 1980 Kennedy Half Dollars beyond mintage and condition:
1. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance appeal and value, especially for proof coins.
2. Strike Quality: Coins with sharp, well-defined details, particularly on Kennedy’s hair and the eagle’s feathers, are more desirable.
3. Preservation: Original, unhandled coins from mint sets often command a premium over those that have been in collections or slightly circulated.
4. Historical Significance: As part of the Kennedy series, these coins hold historical interest, which can affect their long-term value and collectibility.
5. Set Completion: Many collectors seek to complete date and mint mark sets, which can drive demand for specific issues.
