Sometimes, amazing treasures are hiding in the most unexpected places. That’s what happened when a man in Ohio found an old coin while cleaning out his grandfather’s garage. It wasn’t just any coin—it was a rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, and it turned out to be worth $975,000! This discovery shows how important old coins can be, especially if they’re rare or have special features.
Let’s look at how this coin was found, why it’s so valuable, and how you might have one too!
How the Rare Coin Was Found
John Miller, a 35-year-old electrician, was organizing his late grandfather’s garage in 2025. In a dusty wooden toolbox that hadn’t been opened in over 40 years, he found a small cloth pouch. Inside were a few old coins—but one really stood out. It was a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar.
Curious, John showed it to a local coin collector. After careful inspection and expert grading, they realized this wasn’t just any old coin. It was a rare double die version, in near-perfect condition. That’s when John learned his 50-cent coin was nearly worth a million dollars.
🔍 Quick Look: Key Details of the Rare Kennedy Half Dollar
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | Kennedy Half Dollar |
| Year Made | 1964 |
| Mint Mark | None (Made in Philadelphia) |
| Metal Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Special Feature | Double Die Obverse (struck twice) |
| Condition | Near Mint (MS-67) |
| Value | $975,000 |
| Found In | Old Toolbox in Ohio |
| Authentication By | PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) |
Why Is This Coin Worth So Much?
Even though it looks like a regular 50-cent coin, this 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is worth so much because of these reasons:
- It’s from 1964 – the first year this coin was made after President John F. Kennedy’s death.
- It’s made of 90% silver, which already gives it value.
- It has a rare minting mistake called a “double die” where the design was printed twice by accident.
- Its condition is almost perfect, graded MS-67, which is very rare for old coins.
- Only a few of these coins exist, making them extremely rare and valuable to collectors.
Could You Have One of These Coins?
Yes, you could! Many people have old coins stored in jars, drawers, or boxes and don’t even realize what they’re worth.
Here’s how to check:
- Look for the year 1964.
- Check for no mint mark or a “D” for Denver.
- Look closely for doubling in the letters or Kennedy’s face.
- Don’t clean it! Cleaning may lower the value.
- Have it checked by a professional, like PCGS or NGC.
Even regular 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars can be worth $10–$50 just for their silver content. But if you have a rare version, it could be worth thousands!
Why Coin Collecting Is Still Important Today
Coin collecting isn’t just a hobby. It helps keep history alive. Coins like this remind us of important moments, like President Kennedy’s legacy. They also show how small, everyday objects can carry huge value over time.
In today’s world, more people are investing in rare coins. They’re seen as safe and valuable assets that increase in worth. This discovery is proof that what looks like old junk could actually be a hidden treasure.
Final Thoughts
Finding a $975,000 coin in a garage toolbox sounds like a movie scene—but it’s real. This story shows us that valuable things can be hiding right in front of us. Old coins, especially from 1964, could be worth more than you think. Whether you’re a collector or just curious, it’s a great idea to check your spare change and family keepsakes. You never know—your next big discovery could be sitting in a box in the attic.
FAQ’s
What makes a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar valuable?
Its silver content, first-year release, and rare errors like a double die.
How do I know if my coin is a double die?
Look for letters or images that appear doubled. If unsure, ask a coin expert.
Should I clean my coin before selling it?
No! Cleaning can damage the coin and lower its value.
