The half dollar was the first U.S. Bicentennial coin denomination released into circulation, on July 7, 1975.
The release ceremony took place in Minneapolis, the hometown of the half dollar’s reverse designer, Seth G. Huntington. The coin used John F. Kennedy’s portrait on the obverse and a special reverse showing Independence Hall, along with the dual date 1776–1976.
The quarter followed in September 1975, and the Eisenhower dollar followed in October. Although the coins were dated 1776–1976, many were struck during 1975 so that enormous quantities could be produced before the anniversary year.
The three Bicentennial denominations were the Washington quarter, Kennedy half dollar, and Eisenhower dollar. Their temporary reverse designs and shared dual date made them unusual among circulating U.S. coins. The half dollar’s early release is sometimes overlooked because the coins are generally associated with the 1976 calendar year.