The United States half dollar, a coin denomination valued at fifty cents, underwent a significant compositional change in 1965. Prior to that year, these coins were struck from 90% silver. Coins produced in 1968, however, reflect a shift in this composition. These particular coins are composed of an outer layer of 80% silver and 20% copper bonded to an inner core of 20.9% silver and 79.1% copper, resulting in an overall silver content of 40%. This change was implemented to reduce the cost of production amidst rising silver prices.
This alteration in metallic content carries historical and economic significance. The shift reflects the economic pressures of the mid-1960s and the increasing value of precious metals. Coins from this period are often sought after by collectors, not only for their numismatic value but also as tangible reminders of this specific period in US monetary history. The intrinsic metal value, although less than pre-1965 examples, contributes to their appeal, especially when silver prices are elevated.
