The Kennedy half-dollar once again went through some changes after the Coinage Act of 1969 was ratified. On the reverse side, Frank Gasparro designed the heraldic eagle. On the obverse side, Gilroy Robert designed the bust of Kennedy. There were two designers of the Kennedy half-dollar. However, this was changed in 1965 when it was transformed into what they call “silver-clad,” which means, 40% silver and 60% copper. The half-dollar was used to be made of 90% silver and 10% copper. Sinnock, the former Chief Engraver of the United States Mint. The Franklin half dollar has been circulated since 1948 and it was designed by John R. Prior to this, the half dollar was graced by Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. As a way to honor his death, a new half-dollar coin was introduced in 1964 which featured the president. What Is A 1971 Kennedy Half Dollar Made Of?