The composition of the 1967 Kennedy half dollar is notable for its departure from the 90% silver standard of earlier U.S. coinage. This particular coin contains 40% silver, combined with 60% copper, forming a silver-clad composition. This is in contrast to pre-1965 examples, which were primarily composed of the precious metal.
The shift in metallic makeup reflects an important period in U.S. coinage history. Rising silver prices led to the removal of the metal from circulating coinage. The 1967 half dollar represents a transitional phase, offering a reduced amount of the valuable metal while still retaining a connection to the historical use of silver in United States currency. This alteration had a significant impact on the coin’s intrinsic value and collectibility.