2000-2011 Kennedy Half Dollars
The Kennedy Half Dollar series experienced a transformation during the period from 2000-2011. Until now the half dollar denomination had been produced nearly every year for circulation, although in decreasing numbers. Starting in 2002, the US Mint no longer produced Kennedy Halves for circulation, although they did continue to produce circulation strike coins for collectors.
The US Mint began selling bags and rolls of circulation strike Kennedy Half Dollars directly to collectors. These coins were priced at a premium above face value and sold in 200-coin bags from either the Philadelphia or Denver Mint, and a two rolls set containing one roll of coins from each Mint. Sales of similar bags and rolls followed for each subsequent year.
The Kennedy Half Dollar also continued to be produced for collectors through the annual Mint Sets, Proof Sets, and Silver Proof Sets.
Each year, from 2005 to 2010, there were actually six distinct Kennedy Half Dollars produced each year. This consisted of the circulation strike coins from Philadelphia and Denver, the satin finish coins from Philadelphia and Denver, the clad proof coin from San Francisco, and the silver proof coin from San Francisco. Starting in 2011, the satin finish coin was no longer used.
