It’s here: the All-New Half Dollar Design!
The half dollar has long been a staple in U.S. currency – both for its historical symbolism, and as a collector favorite. Most of us can’t remember a time when John F. Kennedy’s portrait wasn’t on the half dollar… but that changes this year! In honor of the 250th anniversary of the U.S., a new 2026 half dollar design is debuting.
A new design debuts
In a drastic departure from the recent past, the new 2026 half dollar design shows a bold rendering of the Statue of Liberty on the obverse. Also in honor of the Semiquincentennial, the obverse is dual-dated 1776-2026.
On the reverse, Liberty is shown symbolically passing her torch to a younger generation. Above the design is the inscription knowledge is the only guardian of true liberty. Known as the Enduring Liberty half dollar, it’s one of several new designs available this year.
2027 and beyond…?
Next year, we anticipate a return to the beloved Kennedy half dollar design. This coin was authorized by Congress just a month after the assassination of our 35th president on November 22, 1963.
Entering circulation in 1964, the Kennedy half dollar’s obverse shows a portrait of JFK based on the one prepared for Kennedy’s presidential medal. Additional recommendations were adopted from feedback provided by Kennedy’s widow, Jacqueline Kennedy, and his brother, Robert F. Kennedy.
In & out of circulation
The half dollar has seen its share of news in the recent past. Beginning in 2002, the half dollar ceased to be issued for circulation. Instead, just enough coins were struck to meet the needs of collectors. But in response to a coinage shortage during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kennedy half dollar production was resumed for circulation once again.
With the new 2026 half dollar design, this stalwart denomination is making numismatic headlines once again. What are your thoughts on this new coin? I’d love to hear from you below!
