1979-S Type 2 Kennedy Half Dollar Value and What Collectors Are Paying Today
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The 1979-S Type 2 Kennedy Half Dollar is worth anywhere from $3 in circulated condition to over $15 in gem proof grades, with top-tier cameo examples fetching $30 or more from serious collectors. If you’ve come across one of these coins in an old proof set, you may be holding something more valuable than you think — and this guide will help you figure out exactly what it’s worth.
What Makes the 1979-S Type 2 Different
The 1979-S Kennedy Half Dollar comes in two varieties, and that distinction matters a lot to collectors. The Type 1 has a filled, blobby “S” mintmark, while the Type 2 features a cleaner, more sharply defined “S.” The U.S. Mint introduced the improved punch partway through 1979 production, making the Type 2 harder to find.
This scarcity is exactly why the 1979-S Type 2 commands a premium over its Type 1 counterpart. Both were struck exclusively for proof sets — meaning they were never made for general circulation. If you have one, it came from a U.S. Mint proof set originally sold directly to collectors.
Spotting the difference requires a good loupe or magnifier. The Type 2 “S” has distinct, separated serifs and crisp curves. Once you train your eye, it becomes easy to identify.
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1979-S Type 2 Kennedy Half Dollar Value by Grade
Proof coins are graded on a scale from PR60 to PR70. The higher the grade, the more mirror-like the fields and the sharper the frosted devices on the portrait and eagle. Cameo (CAM) and Deep Cameo (DCAM) designations add significant value on top of the base grade.
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Here’s a quick look at current market values:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| PR63 | $3 – $6 |
| PR65 | $6 – $10 |
| PR65 Cameo | $10 – $18 |
| PR67 Deep Cameo | $20 – $35 |
| PR69 Deep Cameo | $35 – $60+ |
For the most up-to-date auction results and certified population data, you can browse recent 1979-S Kennedy Half Dollar price records across major grading services to see what buyers are actually paying right now.
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How to Check If Your Coin Is Authentic and Graded Properly
Most 1979-S Type 2 Kennedy Half Dollars found in old proof sets are in excellent condition because they were never circulated. However, coins removed from their original packaging and handled over the years can develop hairline scratches or toning that lowers their grade — and their value.
If you want a professional opinion, services like PCGS and NGC will certify and grade your coin for a fee. A certified PR67 DCAM coin is worth significantly more than a raw, ungraded example of the same quality.
You can also use a coin identifier and value app to get a quick, AI-powered estimate right from your phone. CoinKnow is one of the most popular tools for everyday collectors — just snap a photo of your coin and it will identify the variety, grade estimate, and current value in seconds.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
Identify It & Know Its Real Value — Free Download
Where the 1979-S Type 2 Fits in the Kennedy Half Dollar Series
The Kennedy Half Dollar series started in 1964 as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy following his assassination. The San Francisco Mint has been striking proof versions of the coin for collectors ever since, and the 1979-S is one of the more interesting dates because of the two mintmark types.
While the 1979-S Type 2 isn’t a super-rare coin, it’s a recognized variety that shows up in major coin catalogs and is actively sought by type collectors building complete proof sets.
For a deeper look at how the 1979-S Type 2 stacks up against other dates, this detailed breakdown of 1979 Kennedy Half Dollar values including both proof and business strike varieties is a great place to start your research.
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CoinKnow also lets you track your collection, set price alerts, and compare your coins against recent sales data — all for free. It’s a smart tool whether you’re just curious about one coin or building a serious collection.
Tips for Selling Your 1979-S Type 2 Kennedy Half Dollar
If you decide to sell, your best options are eBay, coin shows, or specialty dealers who focus on proof sets. Raw (ungraded) examples typically sell for $5–$10, while PCGS or NGC certified coins in high grades can bring $30 or more.
Before selling, always compare recent completed sales rather than asking prices. Completed sales show what buyers actually paid. And if you have multiple coins from old proof sets, consider selling them as a complete set — they often bring more together than individually.
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Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
Identify It & Know Its Real Value — Free Download
FAQ
Q: How do I tell if my 1979-S Kennedy Half Dollar is Type 1 or Type 2?
A: Look at the “S” mintmark under magnification. The Type 2 has a clear, well-defined “S” with sharp serifs and distinct curves. The Type 1 looks blobby or filled in by comparison. A 10x loupe is usually enough to see the difference clearly.
Q: Is the 1979-S Type 2 Kennedy Half Dollar rare?
A: It’s not rare in the absolute sense, but it’s noticeably scarcer than the Type 1. It was produced later in the year using an improved mintmark punch, so fewer were made. High-grade examples with Deep Cameo designation are harder to find and worth a meaningful premium.
Q: Should I get my 1979-S Type 2 certified by PCGS or NGC?
A: It depends on the quality of your coin. If it looks like a gem proof with strong cameo contrast, certification could add value. For average examples, the certification cost may outweigh the benefit. Use CoinKnow or check recent sales first to estimate whether grading makes financial sense for your specific coin.
