In 1963, the tragic assassination of John F. Kennedy plunged America into a state of mourning. To honor the 35th President of the United States, the US government decided to mint 50-cent coins made of silver in 1964 featuring his face. Eventually, in 1971, the coin material transitioned from silver to copper/nickel.
The 1972 Half Dollar coins are a continuation of the copper-nickel Kennedy coins. A staggering 298,330,996 of these coins were minted that year, and their current value ranges from $0.60 to $1,100, depending on factors such as circulation and condition. However, it’s worth noting that coins with errors can fetch a significant premium, with the highest price realized so far being $7,500.
What’s interesting about the 1972 Kennedy 50 cents is that those minted in San Francisco are exclusively proof coins. While the 1972 Half Dollar coins may not be considered rare, collectors are drawn to them due to their commemorative significance.
Table of Contents
- 1 The 1972 Half Dollar Composition & Design
- 2 1972 Half Dollar Value
- 3 What Makes a 1972 Kennedy Half-Dollar Rare?
- 4 1972 Half Dollar Mintage
- 5 1972 Half-Dollar Error List
- 6 The 1972 Half Dollar FAQs
- 6.1 What is the current price of a 1972 Half Dollar?
- 6.2 Is the 1972 Half Dollar made of silver?
- 6.3 What is a no-FG Half Dollar?
- 6.4 What does the upside-down eagle on the 1972 Half Dollar signify?
- 6.5 Which Kennedy Half Dollars hold significant value?
- 6.6 What makes a Kennedy Half Dollar rare?
- 6.7 What materials are used in the 1972 Half Dollar?
- 7 Conclusion
The 1972 Half Dollar Composition & Design
When the US first started minting the Kennedy Half Dollar cents in 1964, they were made of Silver. But the metal had to be changed in 1971. Guess why?
Yes, you’re correct: because people started hoarding the coins for their melt value. Let’s find out about the composition of the 1972 Kennedy 50c coin and its design.
The 1972 Half Dollar: Obverse and Reverse Sides
An interesting fact about the 1972 Kennedy coin is that different artists designed its two faces. The obverse side is the work of medallic sculptor Gilroy Roberts. The reverse side is by Frank Gasparro, considered the most successful coin designer.
1972 Half Dollar: Obverse Side
The obverse side of the 1972 Half Dollar showcases the left-facing profile of John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States. Surrounding the edge of the coin, you’ll find the word “LIBERTY” inscribed at the top, while the mintage year, 1972, is displayed along the bottom edge.
Directly below Kennedy’s portrait, you’ll discover the mint mark, either “S” for San Francisco or “D” for Denver. Coins produced in Philadelphia do not bear a mint mark. Additionally, this side of the coin features the iconic national motto, “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
It’s worth noting that Kennedy himself approved the design prior to his untimely passing. However, a minor alteration was requested by Kennedy’s widow, who expressed dissatisfaction with the initial depiction of his hairstyle. As a result, the design was revised to its current version.
1972 Half Dollar: Reverse Side
The reverse side of the 1972 Kennedy 50-cent coin proudly displays the United States Presidential seal. This iconic emblem features an eagle grasping an olive branch in one claw and arrows in the other, while an unsupported shield is positioned in front of its chest.
The eagle’s gaze is directed toward the olive branch, symbolizing a commitment to peace. Positioned just above the eagle, a banner unfurls, bearing the inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Additionally, you’ll notice the presence of 13 stars and cloud puffs, representing the original 13 states of the United States.
Surrounding the entire image, 50 stars adorn the coin, symbolizing the 50 states of the nation. Close to the rim, the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” are elegantly engraved. Towards the bottom, the coin’s value, “Half Dollar,” is clearly inscribed, separated from the nation’s name by two dots.
If you observe closely, between the eagle’s tail and its right leg, you will discover the initials “FG” meticulously engraved. These initials represent the talented designer of the coin, Frank Gasparro.
Related: 1972 Silver Dollar Value
1972 Half Dollar: Composition
The 1972 Kennedy coin is made of metal that combines copper and nickel. The material contains 91.67% Copper and 8.33% Nickel.
The US started using copper-nickel clad for 50 cents instead of Silver in 1971. The coins have a diameter of 30.6mm and weigh 11.34g. They have reeded edges.
Related: Bicentennial 1776 to 1976 Half Dollar Value – A Complete Guide
1972 Half Dollar Value
How much is a 1972 half-dollar worth?
The 1972 Half Dollar coins have a value range from $0.60 to $1,100 depending on their condition and circulation, with error coins (Struck on Cent Planchet) reaching up to $7,500 at auction. Particularly, those minted in San Francisco are exclusively proof coins, and while not particularly rare, their commemorative significance attracts collectors.
1972 Half Dollar Value Chart
Let’s look at the value charts of the 1972, 1972 D, and 1972 S Half Dollar coins.
1972 Kennedy Coins – Philadelphia
| Coin Grade | Price ($) |
| PrAg | 0.60 |
| G | 0.60 |
| VG | 0.60 |
| F | 0.60 |
| VF | 0.60 |
| XF | 0.60 |
| XF+ | 0.60 |
| 50 | 0.60 |
| 50+ | 0.60 |
| 53 | 0.60 |
| 53+ | 0.60 |
| 55 | 0.60 |
| 55+ | 0.60 |
| 58 | 0.65 |
| 58+ | 0.75 |
| 60 | 1 |
| 60+ | 1.50 |
| 61 | 2.50 |
| 61+ | 3.50 |
| 62 | 4 |
| 62+ | 5 |
| 63 | 6 |
| 63+ | 7.50 |
| 64 | 10 |
| 64+ | 12.50 |
| 65 | 20 |
| 65+ | 25 |
| 66 | 50 |
| 66+ | 165 |
| 67 | 1,100 |
The value of one of these coins at an auction has gone as high as $2,899.
1972 Kennedy Coins – Denver
| Coin Grade | Price ($) |
| PrAg | 0.60 |
| G | 0.60 |
| VG | 0.60 |
| F | 0.60 |
| VF | 0.60 |
| XF | 0.60 |
| XF+ | 0.60 |
| 50 | 0.60 |
| 50+ | 0.60 |
| 53 | 0.60 |
| 53+ | 0.60 |
| 55 | 0.60 |
| 55+ | 0.60 |
| 58 | 0.65 |
| 58+ | 0.75 |
| 60 | 1 |
| 60+ | 1.50 |
| 61 | 2.50 |
| 61+ | 3.50 |
| 62 | 4 |
| 62+ | 5 |
| 63 | 6 |
| 63+ | 7.50 |
| 64 | 10 |
| 64+ | 12.50 |
| 65 | 15 |
| 65+ | 25 |
| 66 | 27.50 |
| 66+ | 35 |
| 67 | 175 |
| 67+ | 1,000 |
The highest value realized by these coins at an auction is $5,287.50.
1972 Kennedy Coins – San Francisco
| Coin Grade | Price ($) | ||
| PF | PF CA | PF UC | |
| 60 | 1.30 | – | – |
| 61 | 1.60 | – | – |
| 62 | 2 | 4 | – |
| 63 | 3 | 6 | – |
| 64 | 4.50 | 9 | 11 |
| 65 | 7.50 | 12 | 15 |
| 66 | 10 | 16 | 20 |
| 67 | 13 | 25 | 30 |
| 68 | 18 | 30 | 35 |
| 69 | 27 | 70 | 150 |
One of these coins has realized a value of $7,500 at an auction.
What Makes a 1972 Kennedy Half-Dollar Rare?
The 1972 Kennedy Half Dollar coins were minted in substantial quantities, resulting in their abundance and lack of rarity. Consequently, they are not considered highly valuable. Nevertheless, due to their commemorative nature, these coins attract beginner collectors.
For those seeking a more desirable addition to their collection, searching for uncirculated or proof coins, particularly those with a cameo or deep cameo finish is recommended.
What makes these 50-cent coins truly unique and special is the presence of errors. Exploring auctions and specialized platforms can unveil these intriguing error coins, but be prepared for a substantial investment.
As an example, a remarkable 1972-S 50C Kennedy Half Dollar struck on a Jefferson Nickel Planchet was once auctioned for an impressive $3,120.
1972 Half Dollar Mintage
In 1972, 298,330,996 50c coins with Kennedy’s face were produced by the three mints in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Here are the details of their mintage and value in the coin market.
1972 Half Dollar No Mint Mark Value
153,180,000 Kennedy coins were produced at the Philadelphia mint, making it the producer of the highest number of these coins. They don’t have a mint mark.
The USA Coin Book estimates their value as $3.38 or more. But the auction prices realized at auctions range from $5 to $1920.
1972 D Half Dollar Value
Denver produced 141,890,000 JFK 50c coins. The symbol D is the mint mark on these coins, signifying Denver.
The USA Coin Book estimates the price of uncirculated coins as $3.38 or more. However, they have realized $6 – $5,287.50 at auctions.
1972 S Half Dollar Value
San Francisco produced only 3,260,996 JFK 50 cents, the lowest among the three. These are all proof coins with the sign S as a mint mark.
The USA Coin Book says these proof coins are worth $4.63 or more. But these coins have realized between $5 and $7,500 at auctions.
1972 Half-Dollar Error List
While regular 1972 Half Dollar coins may not hold significant value, the coins with errors capture the attention of devoted numismatists. These captivating errors have fetched remarkable prices at auctions. Let’s delve into some of the notable errors that have commanded high bids in the numismatic market.
| Error | Description | Price Realized |
| 1972 Half Dollar no FG initials | Creator’s initials, FG, not present on the reverse side | $66-$2,485 |
| 1972 Half Dollar Off-Center Strike | Image shifted from the center by 5% or more | $900 (98% off-center) |
| 1972 Half Dollar Clad Layer Missing | No top layer containing copper-nickel clad | $299 |
| 1972 Half Dollar Defective Clad Layer | Different colors on the surface | $849.97 |
| 1972 Half Dollar Double Die Obverse | Second strike off-center | Auctioned at $1,320 (highest), now available at $2,000 |
| 1972 Half Dollar DDO Error | Reverse side in the under type, with several letters and images off the flan | $2,070 |
| 1972 Half Dollar Struck on 5c Planchet | Printed on 5 cent planchet | $3,720 – $9,000 |
| 1972 Half Dollar Struck on Cent Planchet | Printed on red and brown penny coin | $3,360 – $7,500 |
| 1972 Half Dollar Obverse Die Break | Part of the obverse side’s surface broken off | $1,140 |
| 1972 Half Dollar Clipped Elliptical Planchet | Oblong-shaped coin | $2,160 |
| 1972 Half Dollar Triple Curved Clips | Multiple clipped edges | $129 |
| 1972 Half Dollar Overstruck on Nickel | 55% struck thru the cloth | $6,287.50 |
| 1972 Half Dollar Strike Thru | Double strike error on the obverse and reverse sides | $1,749.97 |
| 1972 Half Dollar DDO-DDR | Double strike error on obverse and reverse sides | 55% struck through the cloth |
| 1972 Half Dollar Clipped Rim | Straight clip on the rim | $87.39 |
| 1972 Half Dollar with Unique Marks | Marks on the face and rim | $75 |
| 1972 Half Dollar Obverse Strike Thru | Invisible words on the surface | $199 |
How Much Is a 1972 Kennedy Half-Dollar Error Worth?
1972 Kennedy Half Dollar coins with errors have commanded impressive prices at auctions, often reaching hundreds of dollars. Their rarity is so exceptional that they can even fetch a thousand dollars in certain cases. The pinnacle of value realized so far is a staggering $9,000!
The exceptional coin in question is a 1972-S Kennedy Half Dollar, struck on a 5-cent planchet from 1972-S. It possesses a Grade-66 Cameo rating. Notably, both strikes on the coin are off-center, resulting in faint or blurry letters and images. This remarkable piece achieved its impressive value of $9,000 at the 2021 Long Beach Expo US Coins Signature Auction.
The 1972 Half Dollar FAQs
What is the current price of a 1972 Half Dollar?
In today’s market, circulated 1972 Half Dollar coins are typically valued between $0.60 and $0.75, while uncirculated ones can reach prices as high as $1,100. However, proof coins have been sold at auctions for as much as $7,500, and coins with errors have realized an impressive $9,000.
Is the 1972 Half Dollar made of silver?
Unlike its predecessors minted from 1964 to 1970, the 1972 Half Dollar is not made of silver. Instead, these coins have a clad composition consisting of copper and nickel. The transition to this new metal composition took place in 1971, replacing silver for Half Dollar coins.
What is a no-FG Half Dollar?
A no-FG Half Dollar refers to a 50-cent coin that does not bear the initials of the reverse side designer, Frank Gasparro. This is considered a minting error, as all 50-cent coins should ideally feature “FG” on the back. Collectors highly seek after such error coins due to their rarity.
What does the upside-down eagle on the 1972 Half Dollar signify?
On the reverse side of the 1972 Half Dollar, the eagle appears upside down in relation to JF Kennedy’s face on the obverse side. This eagle represents the official seal of the US President, symbolizing self-reliance, peace, and defense.
Which Kennedy Half Dollars hold significant value?
The most valuable Kennedy Half Dollar coins are those minted in 1964, following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy. These coins were composed of 90% silver. A 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar can be worth around $5,200 in pristine condition.
What makes a Kennedy Half Dollar rare?
Among the Kennedy Half Dollar coins, the rarest ones are those minted in 1964 with 90% silver content. One notable example is the SMS Specimen-68 (PCGS), which achieved a remarkable price of $156,000.
What materials are used in the 1972 Half Dollar?
The 1972 Half Dollar is composed of a clad material. It consists of 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel. The United States made the transition to this composition for 50-cent coins starting in 1971.
Conclusion
For enthusiasts who have a keen interest in US history and have recently ventured into the world of coin collecting, the 1972 Kennedy Half Dollar can serve as a significant starting point.
While its value may hold sentimental meaning as a tribute to America’s beloved president, collectors seeking exceptional coins should search for those with distinct errors that make them truly stand out.
