The half dollar struck in 1968 represents a significant shift in United States coinage. Prior to this year, circulating half dollars were composed of 90% silver. The 1968 mintage, however, saw a change to a clad composition, with a reduced silver content present only in the outer layers bonded to a core of copper. This resulted in a lower overall precious metal value compared to pre-1965 examples.
The change in composition reflects the rising price of silver during the mid-1960s. The United States government sought to reduce the amount of silver used in coinage to stabilize its reserves. These pieces hold historical interest due to this transition, marking a turning point in the metallic composition of circulating currency. They are collected both for their silver content and their place in numismatic history.