1971 Kennedy Half Dollar Reverse Appraisal

1971 Kennedy Half Dollar (Reverse)

The item is a United States 1971 Kennedy Half Dollar, specifically showing its reverse side. This silver-colored coin depicts the Presidential Seal, featuring a heraldic eagle with spread wings. The eagle clutches an olive branch in its right talon and a bundle of thirteen arrows in its left, symbolizing peace and war, respectively. A shield with vertical stripes is emblazoned on the eagle's chest. Above the eagle's head is a radiating glory with thirteen stars, representing the original thirteen colonies, surrounded by a cloud formation. Arched above the seal, encircling the upper perimeter of the coin, are the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA." Below the eagle, along the bottom half of the coin's perimeter, are the words "HALF DOLLAR." The coin appears to be made of a cupronickel clad copper composition, typical for U.S. half dollars minted from 1971 onwards, which gives it its characteristic silver appearance. It exhibits moderate wear consistent with circulation, particularly noticeable on the higher relief areas of the eagle's feathers and the lettering, suggesting it has been handled. There are no major dings, scratches, or significant discoloration that would indicate severe damage or repairs, but some minor surface abrasions are visible under close inspection. The coin maintains a relatively even, muted metallic luster, without signs of heavy toning or environmental damage. It measures approximately 30.61 mm in diameter and has a reeded edge, though the edge is not visible in the provided image. The craftsmanship is typical of U.S. Mint coinage of the period, with a clear and well-defined design despite the circulation wear. The visible details confirm its origin as a standard circulation strike from the early 1970s.