The Kennedy
half dollars struck from 1964 through 1970 have an enthusiastic following on
par with earlier classic issues, largely attributable to their 90% (1964) and 40%
(1965-1970) silver content. Issued to honor President John Fitzgerald Kennedy after
his assassination on November 22, 1963, the series was very popular with the
public. In the first year of production, 1964, the Philadelphia Mint struck
more Mint State half dollars (273,204,004) than were produced throughout the
entire Franklin half dollar series (1948-1963).
The
1969-D half dollar is among the lower mintage issues from this era, with a production
of 129,881,800 coins, just about half of the numbers struck in 1968 at the
Denver Mint. It is the final silver Kennedy half dollar struck for circulation,
as the 1970-D was only available to collectors in Mint sets. While examples are
relatively common in grades up through MS-65, survivors are scarce in MS-66 and
rare in MS-67. PCGS has certified just 18 examples at MS-67, with only one
finer at MS-67+. We are delighted to offer one of these 18 Superb Gems in lot 91366 of our August 2017
Collectors Choice Online Auction. As one of the finest survivors of the issue,
this piece is sure to draw the attention of both Registry Set participants and
Kennedy half dollar specialists!
This
glorious example displays a pearl gray obverse with splashes of gold and
crimson at the lower border. The reverse is slightly more vibrant, offering
rich tangerine and emerald and magenta iridescence at the lower right rim.
Satiny luster complements this toning and showcases pristine surfaces
throughout.
This
exceptional example is presented in our November 2017 Baltimore auction and for viewing and bidding online
at www.StacksBowers.com. Also, download our
mobile app to participate via your Android or Apple device. Contact us
today at 1-800-458-4646 or email info@StacksBowers.com for more information!
