United States half dollars, specifically the Kennedy half dollar, saw a change in their metallic composition during the mid-20th century. Initially composed of 90% silver, the rising price of silver led to alterations in the coin’s makeup. This adjustment responded to the increasing value of the metal exceeding the face value of the coin, prompting concerns about melting and hoarding.
The shift from a high silver content was driven by economic factors. Maintaining the original silver standard would have rendered the coins’ production unsustainable. The reduction, and eventual elimination, of silver was a decision implemented to ensure the continued circulation of half dollars as a viable form of currency and to prevent their disappearance from general use.
