Numismatic

1971 Kennedy Half Dollar BU

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The year 1971 marked a major transition for the United States fifty cent piece. This Kennedy half dollar features a completely non-precious metal composition, utilizing an outer layer of copper and nickel bonded directly to a core of pure copper. Strikingly preserved in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, this specimen showcases the crisp details of its original design just as it looked when leaving the Philadelphia Mint. On the obverse, a left-facing portrait of President John F. Kennedy dominates the field. Designed by Gilroy Roberts, the bust is accompanied by the national motto, IN GOD WE TRUST, split across the lower portion of the design. The word LIBERTY arches gracefully along the upper rim, while the year 1971 is anchored at the bottom. The reverse side, envisioned by Frank Gasparro, displays a detailed heraldic eagle. The majestic bird holds a bundle of arrows in one talon and an olive branch in the other, symbolizing both strength and peace. Above the eagle, the traditional Latin phrase E PLURIBUS UNUM is featured on a scroll, surrounded by the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the denomination, HALF DOLLAR.