A $500 Kennedy Half Dollar? It’s Already Happening
Most people assume modern coins are only worth face value. That assumption just proved wrong.
A newly confirmed 2024-D Kennedy Half Dollar mint error, known as the “Dropped Star” Obverse Error, is already selling for $300 to $500+, even in early finds. Certified examples are drawing strong interest from collectors — and more may still be circulating unnoticed.
If you’ve handled any 2024 Kennedy half dollars, this is one coin you need to check carefully. 
What Is the 2024 “Dropped Star” Error?
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Coin |
2024-D Kennedy Half Dollar |
 Error Name |
Dropped Star (Obverse) |
 Mint |
Denver (D mint mark) |
 Location |
Small star near Kennedy’s mouth |
 Cause |
Fragment transfer from reverse die |
 Status |
Officially certified mint error |
How the Error Happened
During the minting process, a tiny fragment from the reverse flag design (a star) broke off and became embedded in the obverse die. This resulted in a raised star appearing on President Kennedy’s portrait, giving rise to the name “Dropped Star.”
This is a true mint error, not damage or post-mint alteration.
Step-by-Step: How to Spot the “Dropped Star” Kennedy Half Dollar
Check the Date and Mint Mark
- The coin must be dated 2024
- Look for the “D” mint mark below the date (Denver Mint)
Inspect Kennedy’s Mouth Area
- Look closely near Kennedy’s mouth
- You are searching for a small, raised star shape
Compare With a Normal Coin
- A regular 2024 half dollar will not have any star on the obverse portrait
- The error coin shows a distinct raised star
Use a Magnifier
A 10× loupe makes the star clearly visible- Under good lighting, the shape is unmistakable
Pro Tip: Always examine both sides of the coin. Error details stand out best under angled light.
How Much Is the 2024 “Dropped Star” Half Dollar Worth?
Although this is a newly discovered variety, early market activity already shows strong pricing:
Estimated Value Range
- Circulated examples: $300 – $400
- Mint State (MS65+): $500 – $600+
- Top-graded coins (MS68): Potentially higher once major auctions begin
As more collectors learn about this error — and if the population remains low — values may continue to rise.
Why This Error Is Important to Collectors
The 2024 “Dropped Star” Kennedy Half Dollar checks every box collectors look for:
Brand-new modern discovery
Easy to identify
Officially certified by grading services
Strong demand from Kennedy collectors
In short, this is the type of modern mint error that often becomes a long-term favorite.
Where to Look for the 2024 “Dropped Star” Coin
Your best chances are in everyday sources:
Bank rolls (ask specifically for 2024-D half dollars)- Coin jars and cash drawers
Local coin shops with unsearched modern inventory
Roll searching has already produced the first confirmed finds.
Handling and Selling Tips (Very Important)
If you believe you’ve found one, protect its value:
DO:
Handle the coin by the edges only
Take clear photos from multiple angles
Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication
Sell through trusted dealers or auction houses (e.g., Heritage Auctions)
DON’T:
Never clean or polish the coin- Avoid “too good to be true” online offers
- Don’t sell it raw — certified coins sell for more
Final Thoughts: Check Your 2024 Coins Carefully
The 2024 “Dropped Star” Kennedy Half Dollar is proof that modern coins can still deliver surprising value.
Before rolling, spending, or ignoring your half dollars:
Take a closer look — that small star could be worth $500 or more.
Sometimes, today’s pocket change becomes tomorrow’s collectible.
