By PennyVerse.info
The 1776-1976 Kennedy Bicentennial half dollar contains several rare error varieties that can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. At PennyVerse.info, we’ve tracked recent eBay sales and auction records to bring you this definitive guide to the most valuable errors of this commemorative coin.
Most Valuable Bicentennial Half Dollar Errors
1. Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
- Description: Clear doubling in “IN GOD WE TRUST” and date
- Key Varieties:
- FS-101 (Strong doubling) – 300−300−1,500
- FS-102 (Moderate doubling) – 150−150−800
- Recent eBay Sale: $1,250 (FS-101, AU-55)
2. Doubled Die Reverse (DDR)
- Description: Doubling in Independence Hall details
- Value Range: 200−200−1,000
- Record Sale: $950 (MS-64, 2023)
3. Off-Center Strikes (10-40%)
- Description: Partial design missing
- Value Range:
- 10-20%: 50−50−150
- 30-40%: 200−200−800
- Most Valuable: 35-40% with date visible
4. Clipped Planchet Errors
- Description: Crescent-shaped missing metal
- Value Range: 75−75−400
- Premium Examples: Multiple clips
How to Identify These Errors
Step-by-Step Examination Guide
- Check Lettering: Use 10x magnification for doubling in “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- Examine Date: Look for notching or separation in “1776-1976”
- Inspect Reverse: Check Independence Hall for doubling or weak areas
- Review Edges: Look for clips or irregular planchets
Tools Needed
- 10x jeweler’s loupe
- LED light source
- Digital microscope (for advanced collectors)
Current Market Trends (2024)
- Strong DDO varieties in highest demand
- 40% silver versions command 20% premium
- Certified errors sell for 2-3x raw coin prices
- Complete error sets gaining popularity
Where to Sell Your Error Half Dollar
Best Platforms by Value
| Error Type | Best Venue | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Major DDO/DDR | Heritage Auctions | 500−500−5,000 |
| Off-Center 20%+ | eBay | 100−100−800 |
| Clips/Double Strikes | Facebook Groups | 75−75−400 |
Selling Tips
- High-resolution photos are essential
- Compare to recent sales before pricing
- Consider PCGS/NGC grading for coins over $500
FAQs About Bicentennial Errors
Q: Are all 1776-1976 half dollars valuable?
A: Only those with significant errors – most are worth face value to $3.
Q: How many doubled die varieties exist?
A: At least 5 confirmed major varieties, with FS-101 being most valuable.
Q: Where’s the best place to find these errors?
A: Original bank rolls, estate sales, and old collections.
Free Resources from PennyVerse.info
Need expert verification? Visit PennyVerse.info for free evaluations.
Leave a Reply