How to Identify This Rare 40% Silver Transitional Coin
While most 1968 half dollars are clad coins worth face value, the extremely rare silver versions can be worth 5,000to5,000to15,000+ to collectors. Here’s everything you need to know about this valuable transitional error.
Key Identification Features
1. Metal Composition Test
| Feature | 1968 Silver | Regular 1968 Clad |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 11.50g | 11.34g |
| Edge | Solid silver-colored | Visible copper sandwich |
| Magnetism | Slightly magnetic (40% silver) | Non-magnetic |
| Sound | High-pitched “ring” | Dull “clink” |
2. Mintmark Varieties
All authentic 1968 silver halves are:
- Denver Mint (D) – Only confirmed specimens
- No Philadelphia (P) silver issues known
- No San Francisco (S) silver proofs this year
3. Surface Characteristics
- Distinctive luster different from clad coins
- No copper bleeding at edges
- Sharper strike details than clad versions
Grading & Value Spectrum
| Grade | Description | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| MS66 | Premium gem quality | 5,000−5,000−7,000 |
| MS67 | Superb gem | 8,000−8,000−12,000 |
| MS68 | Near-perfect | 12,000−12,000−15,000+ |
Record Sale: $15,275 (PCGS MS68, 2021)
How This Error Occurred
The 1965-1970 Transition Period
- 1964: Last 90% silver halves
- 1965-1970: Official 40% silver-clad composition
- 1968 Error: A few coins struck on leftover 40% silver planchets
- Estimated Survivors: Less than 50 confirmed
Where to Search for This Rarity
Best Hunting Methods
- Original Bank Rolls (especially early 1968-D rolls)
- Estate Collections (look for old half dollar holdings)
- Coin Dealer Inventories (ask for “transitional errors”)
Recent Discovery:
A Florida collector found one in a 500bagofhalves∗∗−latercertifiedandsoldfor∗∗500bagofhalves∗∗−latercertifiedandsoldfor∗∗13,500
Professional Authentication
Step-by-Step Verification
- Weigh Precisely (must be 11.50g ±0.05g)
- XRF Metal Test (confirm 40% silver content)
- Edge Examination (no copper layer visible)
- PCGS/NGC Submission (mandatory for top value)
Red Flags:
❌ Wrong weight (under 11.45g)
❌ Copper bleeding at edges
❌ Artificial toning
Investment Potential
Value Appreciation
- 2010: $3,000 (for MS65)
- 2021: $15,275 (record sale)
- Projected 2030 Value: $20,000+
Market Drivers:
- Extreme Rarity (fewer than 50 known)
- Kennedy Series Popularity
- Transitional Error Demand
Where to Sell for Top Dollar
Best Auction Houses
- Heritage Auctions (record-setting sales)
- Stack’s Bowers (specializes in modern errors)
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions (private treaty)
Selling Tip:
PCGS TrueView imaging adds 10-15% to value
Free Expert Evaluation
Think you have a 1968 silver half dollar? Email clear photos to:
📧 kennedy@pennyverse.info
Subject: “1968 SILVER HALF”
We’ll provide:
✔ Free preliminary assessment
✔ Current market valuation
✔ Next-step recommendations
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