SS, >>why do you think the '64 Kennedys<<
Here are my thoughts. This is a bit long but it is the thought process I went through to get to Kennedy halves.
I think there may come a time where we see hyper-inflation or the break down in the monetary system making paper money less valuable. So, I want to have something that will retain it's value in such a case that it can be easily bartered. Gold and silver fit that catagory.
I think that coinage of both will be the best negotiable for barteringn because of the more recognized value versus having just a hunk of gold or some sterling flatware. So I want gold or silver coins.
Gold is interesting but the smallest gold coin will have to be exchanged for a lot of goods. I think many will be interested in the smaller 'demonination' silver coins for 'change' and smaller 'purchases'. Therefor I think the demand will cause silver value to outperform gold - the ratio to tighten to more historical levels. So I want silver coins.
Silver coins prior to 1965 are 90% silver. You can buy those or .999 pure silver eagles. The 'eagles' sell for a premium to the melt price as collectables. Franklin halves and before also have a collectable premium added when trying to buy as do the quarters and dimes. Halves also sell for a premium to the smaller coins because there is less of them. IMO the collectable premium will be nil in very harsh times. When it was announced in 1963 that the 1964 coins would be the last minted at 90% silver, most were taken out of the market as collectables. Since so many were taken out relative to the number of collectors the premium has stayed low. I found that I can buy brillant uncirculated or almost uncirculated 1964 Kennedy halves for near the melt value.
Now put yourself in a time when you may need to shop with you silver or gold coins. Remember, everyone that has caught them selves long in depreciating goods or services but short of appreciating precious metals will be very willing to exchange for your coinage.
IMO, I think if I show up to 'trade' with bright and shiney 1964 Kennedy halves that I originally bought at a discount to other coins offered now, that their value will be near equal or better than the other coins being offered for exchange be it older coins, newer eagles, or the premium one would pay today for gold versus silver.
Anyway, that's my thinking. Comments very much welcomed
