The Kennedy half dollar, first minted in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, holds a significant place in American numismatics. Originally composed of 90% silver, these coins have become prized collectibles. However, their popularity has also made them targets for counterfeiters. For collectors, distinguishing genuine coins from fakes is crucial. This guide provides expert insights into identifying counterfeit Kennedy silver half dollars.
Understanding the Composition and Design
The 1964 Kennedy half dollars were minted with a composition of 90% silver and 10% copper. From 1965 to 1970, the composition shifted to 40% silver clad, with the remaining percentage comprising copper. Post-1970, the coins transitioned to a copper-nickel clad composition, eliminating silver content. Recognizing these compositional changes is vital when assessing a coin’s authenticity.
Key Design Features to Examine
- Obverse Details: The obverse showcases President Kennedy’s profile. Genuine coins exhibit sharp details, especially in Kennedy’s hair and facial features. Counterfeit coins often display soft or blurred details due to inferior engraving techniques.
- Reverse Design: The Kennedy half dollar reverse features the Presidential Seal, an eagle with a shield, holding an olive branch and arrows. Authentic coins have intricate details, including clear delineation of the eagle’s feathers and the arrows. Any lack of detail or irregularities can indicate a counterfeit.
- Mint Mark Inspection: Mint marks, indicating the minting location, are found on the reverse side for coins minted from 1964 to 1967 and on the obverse side thereafter. Familiarize yourself with the correct placement and style of mint marks for each year. Misplaced or oddly styled mint marks can be red flags.
Physical Characteristics to Verify
- Weight and Dimensions: A genuine 1964 Kennedy half dollar weighs 12.5 grams with a diameter of 30.6 millimeters. The 40% silver coins (1965-1970) weigh 11.5 grams. Using a precise scale and caliper, verify these measurements. Deviations may suggest a counterfeit.
- Edge Examination: Authentic silver coins have a consistent silver edge without visible copper lines. Post-1970 copper-nickel clad coins display a distinct copper core visible on the edge. Observing the edge can help identify the coin’s composition.
Common Counterfeiting Red Flags
- Surface Texture: Counterfeit coins often have a grainy or porous surface due to substandard casting methods. Authentic coins possess a smooth, even surface resulting from proper minting processes.
- Design Inaccuracies: Pay attention to the clarity of inscriptions and design elements. Blurred or misshapen letters and numbers can indicate a counterfeit.
- Magnetic Properties: Silver is non-magnetic. If a coin is attracted to a magnet, it’s a clear sign of counterfeit materials.
Notable Counterfeit Examples
In May 2023, counterfeit Kennedy half dollars dated 1968-D and 1969-S were identified. The 1968-D counterfeit exhibited a textured, almost pixelated surface with incorrect reverse design elements. The 1969-S counterfeit, intended to mimic a proof coin, lacked the characteristic mirrored finish and featured an inaccurate mintmark. These examples highlight the importance of meticulous inspection.
Expert Tips for Authentication
- Use Magnification: Employ a jeweler’s loupe or microscope to inspect fine details. Authentic coins will have crisp lines and clear details.
- Sound Test: Gently tapping a silver coin produces a distinct, clear ringing sound. Counterfeit coins often produce a duller tone due to different metal compositions.
- Consult Reputable Dealers: Engage with established coin dealers or numismatists for evaluations. Their experience can be invaluable in identifying counterfeits.
- Professional Grading Services: Submitting coins to professional grading services like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) can provide authentication and grading, offering peace of mind to collectors.
Preventive Measures for Collectors
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common counterfeiting techniques and known counterfeit examples. Knowledge is a collector’s best defense.
- Purchase from Trusted Sources: Buy coins from reputable dealers or auction houses with a track record of authenticity.
- Documentation: Maintain records of purchases, including receipts and certificates of authenticity. This documentation can be crucial for future verification.
Summing Up:
The allure of Kennedy silver half dollars makes them a prime target for counterfeiters. By understanding the coins’ composition, design intricacies, and common counterfeiting red flags, collectors can safeguard their investments. Employing expert authentication techniques and remaining vigilant are essential practices in the numismatic community.
