1971 Kennedy Half Dollar

This is a United States Kennedy Half Dollar minted in 1971. The coin features the left-facing profile of President John F. Kennedy on the obverse, designed by Gilroy Roberts. It has a diameter of 30.6mm and is composed of a copper-nickel clad over a pure copper core. The 1971 issue marked the first year of the base-metal clad composition for circulating half dollars, following the 40% silver versions used from 1965-1970. The obverse is inscribed with 'LIBERTY' around the top edge, the date '1971' at the bottom, and the national motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST' appearing across the lower field over Kennedy's neck. Condition-wise, this specimen shows significant signs of circulation. Notable wear is visible on the high points of the hair and the cheekbone. The surfaces appear dull with a layer of dark toning and grime, particularly in the recessed areas of the lettering. There are numerous small contact marks, bag marks, and light scratches across the fields, which is typical for a coin that has seen heavy use in commerce. There is no visible mint mark above the date, indicating it was produced at the Philadelphia Mint. The strike depth appears average for the period. The coin exhibits a circulated patina and lacks the original mint luster associated with uncirculated specimens.

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