1964 50C SMS MS68 PCGS....

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Beautiful 1964 SMS Kennedy Half, MS68

1964 50C SMS MS68 PCGS. More rumors than facts surround the issuance of the 1964 SMS coins, but examples are known from the cent through half dollar. Current estimates range from 20 to 50 sets produced, with some likely lost to attrition and "more are believed to be out there," according to a May 2008 PCGS online article by Jaime Hernandez. Many of the 1964 Kennedy half dollars, per the Breen Complete Encyclopedia and other sources, were struck in 1965 from 1964-dated dies. Ron Guth and Bill Gale, in United States Proof Sets and Mint Sets 1936-2002, assert that the production of 1964-dated coins continued at the Mint until 1966. It is entirely possible (if not entirely likely) that the 1964 Special Mint Set coins may also have been struck in early 1965, as the Mint only began shipment of the 1965 Special Mint Sets on May 20.
This piece exhibits the characteristic sharp strike on both sides usually seen on the 1964 SMS coins, along with heavy die polishing also usual for the issue. The obverse is the Normal Hair (non-Accented Hair, only used on proof coins) type, while the reverse is the Type One reverse, with a straight G in the FS designer's initials and breaks in rays 11-13 (counting from the left) where they meet stars. For pedigree purposes, we note a few spots of dark toning in the left obverse field around IN GOD and the L of LIBERTY, along with a small, dotlike impression in the field, northwest of the I in GOD. But overall the coin is beautiful and free of nearly all contact, with pretty pink and gold highlights and broad eye appeal. The PCGS online Population Report shows 12 1964 SMS Kennedy halves in all grades, ranging from one in MS64 to one in MS69. The present MS68 piece is one of four so certified (3/09).(Registry values: P1)

Coin Index Numbers: (PCGS# 6844, Greysheet# 6988)

Weight: 12.50 grams

Metal: 90% Silver, 10% Copper

View Certification Details from PCGS