Crafting with 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars: A Guide for Jewelry Makers

Introduction: The Appeal of Kennedy Half Dollars for Jewelry Making

Crafting jewelry from coins isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about finding the right material. The 1964 Kennedy half dollar stands out for its historical significance, precious metal content, and exceptional workability. Let’s explore why this coin is a favorite among jewelry makers.

Historical Significance and Metal Composition

The 1964 Kennedy half dollar carries profound historical weight, minted just months after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Beyond its historical value, this coin boasts a 90% silver and 10% copper composition, making it a prime choice for jewelry crafting. The high silver content offers both malleability and durability, allowing artisans to shape it into stunning rings and pendants while preserving its structural integrity.

Silver’s natural luster enhances the coin’s aesthetic appeal, giving finished pieces a timeless, elegant look. Whether you’re a collector or a crafter, this coin’s combination of history and craftsmanship potential is unmatched.

Understanding Proof vs. Circulation Strikes

The images in our discussion showcase a proof coin, distinguished by its mirror-like fields and frosted devices. Proof coins were struck specifically for collectors, using polished dies and multiple strikes to achieve exceptional detail and reflectivity. This superior quality makes them ideal for jewelry making, as the finished piece will have unmatched visual appeal.

Proof coins from 1964, included in Special Mint Sets, feature a distinctive cameo effect—contrasting frosted devices against mirrored fields. This creates a striking visual result when transformed into wearable art, elevating the piece’s collectibility and numismatic value.

Metal Hardness and Workability

The 90% silver composition of 1964 Kennedy halves offers excellent workability for jewelry crafting. With a Mohs hardness of approximately 2.5-3, silver is soft enough to shape without specialized equipment while maintaining enough durability for everyday wear. The 10% copper content adds necessary hardness, creating a sterling silver alloy that strikes the perfect balance between workability and durability.

Design Details That Enhance Jewelry Appeal

Obverse Design Features

John F. Kennedy’s profile on the obverse provides excellent visual impact for jewelry pieces. The detailed hair, facial features, and the word “LIBERTY” create interesting textures and patterns when the coin is shaped into a ring or pendant. These intricate details add depth and character to the finished piece.

Reverse Design Elements

The presidential seal on the reverse features the eagle with shield, olive branch, and arrows—creating intricate details that can be highlighted in jewelry designs. The 50 stars around the perimeter add additional visual interest, making each piece a conversation starter.

Edge Details

The reeded edge of the Kennedy half dollar adds texture and grip when crafting rings, creating a comfortable fit and preventing the ring from spinning on the finger. This small detail enhances both the functionality and aesthetic of the jewelry.

Crafting Considerations for 1964 Kennedy Halves

Ring Making Potential

The 30.6mm diameter of the Kennedy half dollar makes it ideal for men’s rings (size 9-13 when properly crafted) or women’s larger statement rings. The coin’s thickness provides enough material for substantial, durable rings that can withstand daily wear while maintaining their mint condition appeal.

Preserving Design Elements

When crafting jewelry from proof coins, consider which design elements you want to preserve. The proof finish can be maintained on certain portions of the piece, creating contrast between polished and untouched areas. This technique highlights the coin’s original beauty while adding a unique touch to the jewelry.

Tools and Techniques

Basic jewelry-making tools are sufficient for working with 1964 Kennedy halves. A ring mandrel, nylon hammer, and polishing equipment will allow you to create professional-quality pieces while preserving the coin’s intrinsic value. With the right techniques, you can transform this rare variety into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Market Value and Investment Considerations

While 1964 proof Kennedy halves typically trade at bullion value (approximately $12-15 in silver content as of recent market prices), their crafting potential adds significant value for jewelry makers. The historical significance and beautiful design make these pieces highly desirable in the handmade jewelry market, often commanding premiums over spot price.

In Europe and other international markets, silver JFK halves often attract collectors and artisans alike, making them accessible materials for jewelry artisans while still maintaining their precious metal value.

Authentication and Quality Assessment

Identifying Genuine 1964 Halves

Authentic 1964 Kennedy halves should have the following characteristics:

• 90% silver composition (weigh approximately 12.5 grams)
• “IN GOD WE TRUST” motto
• “LIBERTY” inscription on obverse
• “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DOLLAR” on reverse
• Mint mark (“D” for Denver or no mint mark for Philadelphia)

Assessing Proof Quality

For jewelry making, proof coins are preferable due to their superior strike quality and finish. Look for:

• Mirror-like fields
• Frosted devices
• Sharp, well-defined details
• Absence of contact marks or hairlines

Care and Maintenance of Silver Coin Jewelry

Silver coin jewelry requires regular maintenance to preserve its beauty. Store pieces in anti-tarnish pouches or cloth, and clean with silver polish when necessary. The copper content in the alloy may cause slight tarnishing, but this can be easily removed with proper cleaning techniques, ensuring your piece retains its eye appeal for years to come.

Conclusion: The Perfect Marriage of History and Craftsmanship

The 1964 Kennedy half dollar represents an excellent opportunity for jewelry makers to combine historical significance with practical crafting materials. The 90% silver composition provides the perfect balance of workability and durability, while the iconic design ensures that finished pieces will be both beautiful and meaningful.

Whether you’re creating rings, pendants, or other jewelry items, the 1964 Kennedy half dollar offers exceptional crafting potential that honors both American history and the art of jewelry making. This rare variety is more than just a coin—it’s a piece of history waiting to be transformed into something extraordinary.

Related Resources

You might also find these related articles helpful:

• Preserving Your 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar: A Conservationist’s Guide to Proper Storage and Care – Introduction: Saving History, One Coin at a Time Nothing breaks my heart more than seeing precious coins ruined by carel…
• Grading 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar: The Difference Between $10 and $1,000 – The Critical Role of Condition in 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars When it comes to numismatic value, condition isn’t jus…
• Is Your 1964 Kennedy Proof Half Dollar Real? Expert Authentication Guide – Historical Significance The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar holds a special place in American numismatic history. Minted just m…