Price Guide for 1985 Half Dollar Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1985 Half Dollar variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
1985-D Half Dollar (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 - $158.63
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eBayUncirculated: $2.26 - $3,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1.00 - $10.00Uncirculated: $5.00 - $5,000.00
1985-P Half Dollar (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4.00 - $2,645.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1.25 - $172.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1.00 - $10.00Uncirculated: $5.00 - $2,650.00
1985-S Half Dollar, DCAM (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 - $575.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 - $213.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 - $42.00
Design and Specifications of the 1985 Half Dollar
The 1985 Kennedy Half Dollar continues the series that began in 1964 to honor the assassinated President John F. Kennedy. This coin holds significance as part of the long-running Kennedy Half Dollar series, which has been in production for over five decades. By 1985, the half dollar had largely disappeared from circulation due to hoarding and reduced demand for the denomination in everyday transactions.
| Weight | 11.34 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 30.61 mm |
| Mint Marks | P, D, S |
| Composition | 91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel (clad over pure copper core) |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of John F. Kennedy, designed by Gilroy Roberts |
| Reverse Design | Presidential Seal, designed by Frank Gasparro |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1985 Kennedy Half Dollars. While circulated examples generally trade close to face value, uncirculated coins can command a premium. Coins in MS65 and above are particularly desirable, with those grading MS67 or higher being quite scarce and valuable.
For proof coins, the difference between PR69 and PR70 can be significant in terms of value. Cameo and Deep Cameo contrasts on proof specimens can also enhance their appeal and value to collectors.
Mintage: 19,384,016
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS66, scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low to Moderate, primarily for uncirculated specimens
Mintage: 10,939,524
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS66, scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low to Moderate, primarily for uncirculated specimens
Mintage: 3,362,821
Rarity Scale: Common for proofs
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to PR69, scarce in PR70
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, popular among proof set collectors
Strike quality is an important factor for 1985 Kennedy Half Dollars. Well-struck coins with full detail on Kennedy's hair and the eagle's feathers are more desirable. Luster also plays a significant role, with coins displaying bright, frosty luster being more sought after.
While not typically known for attractive toning, any 1985 Half Dollar with exceptional, natural toning could command a premium. Additionally, error coins, though rare for this year, could be valuable if discovered. These might include off-center strikes, double dies, or other minting errors.
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