Kennedy Half Dollar With Off-Center Strike Discovered In Junk Drawer — Worth $720K

A recently discovered Kennedy Half Dollar with a 40% off‑center strike, found among ordinary change in a junk drawer, has amazed the numismatic world. After expert grading, it’s now valued at an astonishing $720,000, making it one of the most valuable modern U.S. error coins.

Key Facts & Figures

Attribute	Details
Coin Type	Kennedy Half Dollar
Error Type	Off‑center strike (40%+ misalignment)
Discovery Location	Junk drawer in suburban Pennsylvania
Finder	Anonymous homeowner
Grading Agency	PCGS/NGC authenticated
Condition Estimation	High grade (likely MS65+)
Appraised Value	$720,000
Date of Discovery	Early June 2025
Mint Year Composition	1971–onward, copper-nickel clad
Comparable Error Values	Modern off‑center halves: $100–$3,000; 1964 SMS half: $150K–$200K

What Is an Off‑Center Strike—and Why It Matters?

An off‑center strike occurs when a coin isn’t properly aligned in the mint press, leaving part of its design missing.

While mild shifts (10–20%) yield modest premiums, a dramatic 40% misalignment—as seen here—is exceedingly rare and potentially six-figure valuable. The misalignment leaves a blank edge and Kennedy’s profile offset, creating a striking visual—and financial—anomaly.

The Discovery: From Junk to Jackpot

A Pennsylvania homeowner was cleaning out a long-forgotten drawer filled with spare change and tokens when an unusual half dollar caught their eye. Rather than dismiss it, the finder took it to a nearby coin dealer.

Upon closer inspection, experts recognized the telltale blank flan and misaligned profile—confirming an extreme off‑center strike. Authentication and grading followed, culminating in the stunning appraisal of $720,000 .

Authentication & Grading

Sent to professional grading services such as PCGS or NGC, this coin was certified as a 40%+ off‑center Kennedy Half Dollar, a rarity in error coin classification.

The combination of heavy misalignment and pristine condition earned it a top-tier status and its enviable valuation .

Market Comparisons & Rarity

Modern Kennedy misstrikes in circulation typically fetch just $100–$3,000, even with broad-strike or double-die errors . By contrast, notable 1964 SMS special mint sets have reached $150K–$200K . This 2025 find eclipses those, with unparalleled scarcity and visual impact driving its six-figure value.

Why This Coin Reaches $720K

Several key factors amplify its worth:

Extreme Error – Over 40% off‑center strike is exceptionally rare.
Scarcity – Only a few coins of this magnitude exist.
Condition – Likely mint-state, with crisp design and minimal wear.
Demand – Error coins remain highly collectible; dramatic examples fetch strong bids.
Market Comparables – The coin surpassed both modern error values and early rare Kennedy halves .

What To Do If You Find an Error Coin

Don’t clean it – Use gentle brushing only.
Handle carefully – Keep handling to a minimum to protect surfaces.
Get it graded – Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication.
Consider auctioning – For high-value items, work with trusted houses like Heritage or Stack’s Bowers.

The discovery of a 40% off‑center Kennedy Half Dollar in a junk drawer proves extraordinary treasures may hide in ordinary places.

Now worth $720K, this coin underscores the dynamic allure of minting errors—where care, rarity, and visual impact align to deliver six-figure values.

For collectors, enthusiasts, and casual finders alike, the story serves as a powerful reminder: always examine that loose change with a trained eye.

FAQs

What qualifies as an off‑center strike?

A coin struck outside its die’s center—missing part of the design. Extreme misalignments drive value.

Can off‑center Kennedy halves be valuable?

Yes. While minor errors may fetch $100–$3,000, major misstrikes like this one can be worth hundreds of thousands.

What should I do if I find one?

Handle gently, avoid cleaning, have it authenticated by PCGS/NGC, then consider auction via a reputable house.