The current half dollar features President John F. Kennedy. His portrait has been on the obverse side of the half dollar for many years. Kennedy first appeared on the 50-cent coin in 1964 when the Kennedy half dollar debuted.
John F. Kennedy, also known by his initials JFK, was the 35th president of the United States. Born in Massachusetts in 1917, he was one of the most popular presidents of all time. Kennedy served as president from 1961-1963. He is best known for leading America through the height of the Cold War. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963 during his first presidential term.
Previous Half Dollar Series
Before the Kennedy half dollars there were other half dollars series.
Franklin Half Dollars
The Franklin half dollar features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the obverse side of the coin. This series was minted from 1948-1963.
Early Half Dollars
There were earlier half dollar series such as the Flowing Hair half dollar, Draped Bust half dollar, Capped bust half dollar, Seated Liberty half dollar, and Walking Liberty half dollar. These early coins feature Lady Liberty on the obverse side of the coin. The Lady Liberty image represents freedom.
Commemorative Half Dollars
The US has minted many different commemorative half dollars over the years. Many of these commemorative coins feature presidents, generals, and other historical figures.
See also:
Who Is on the Penny?
Who Is on the Nickel?
Who Is on the Dime?
Who Is on the Quarter?