A Chance Discovery at a Gas Station
Last week, a regular trip to a gas station in Ohio turned into a life-changing moment for Mike Sanders, a 42-year-old mechanic. While paying for gas, Mike noticed a shiny coin in the change he got back from the cashier. It was a 1964 Kennedy half dollar, but something about it seemed special. “I thought it looked different, shinier than usual,” Mike said. He slipped it into his pocket, not knowing he’d just stumbled upon a coin worth millions.
A Coin with a Rare Twist
When Mike got home, he showed the coin to his brother, a part-time coin collector. His brother spotted something unusual: the coin had a rare “Special Mint Set” (SMS) finish, a feature only found in a handful of 1964 Kennedy half dollars. These coins were made as test pieces by the U.S. Mint and never meant for circulation. Experts say only about 12 of these coins are known to exist, making them incredibly rare. Mike’s coin was in near-perfect condition, adding to its value.
| Coin Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1964 |
| Type | Kennedy Half Dollar (SMS) |
| Estimated Value | $3.21 Million |
| Condition | Near Mint |
| Rarity | ~12 Known Examples |
The Journey to Authentication
Unsure of what he had, Mike took the coin to a local coin shop. The owner’s jaw dropped when he saw it. “He told me to lock it up and not tell anyone until it was checked by experts,” Mike recalled. The coin was sent to a top grading service in California, where professionals confirmed it was a genuine 1964 SMS Kennedy half dollar. They graded it as one of the finest examples ever found. News of the discovery spread fast, catching the attention of collectors across the country.
A Life-Changing Moment
The coin’s estimated value of $3.21 million left Mike in shock. “I couldn’t believe it. I’m just a regular guy who fixes cars,” he said. Auction houses have already reached out, predicting the coin could fetch even more at a sale. Mike plans to use the money to pay off his house, help his family, and maybe take a vacation—something he’s never been able to afford. “It’s like winning the lottery, but I found it in my change,” he said, still amazed.
Why This Coin Is So Special
The 1964 Kennedy half dollar was created to honor President John F. Kennedy after his assassination. Most were made for everyday use, but the SMS versions were experimental, with a smoother, shinier finish. Because so few exist, collectors see them as treasures. “This coin is a piece of history,” said Laura Chen, a coin expert. “Finding one at a gas station is like finding a needle in a haystack.” Its rarity and condition make it one of the most valuable U.S. coins ever discovered.
What’s Next for Mike?
Mike hasn’t decided whether to sell the coin or keep it as a family heirloom. For now, it’s locked in a safe deposit box while he weighs his options. The discovery has sparked a wave of excitement, with people across Ohio checking their change for hidden treasures. Mike’s story reminds everyone that sometimes, life’s biggest surprises come in the smallest packages—like a single coin from a gas station.
