Based on general numismatic knowledge, as the provided context did not contain specific pricing information, the value of a 1972 Kennedy half dollar is primarily determined by its condition, mint mark, and composition. For the vast majority of these coins found in circulation, the value is simply their face value of 50 cents. This is because Kennedy half dollars minted for circulation from 1971 onward do not contain any silver. Instead, they are composed of a copper-nickel clad alloy, giving them no intrinsic precious metal value beyond that of their base metals.
In 1972, the United States Mint produced these coins at two different facilities for circulation: Philadelphia and Denver. The Philadelphia issue has no mint mark, while the Denver issue bears a "D" mint mark. Both were produced in large quantities, making them very common. A circulated 1972 or 1972-D half dollar, showing signs of wear, is worth its 50-cent face value. However, specimens in uncirculated, or mint state, condition carry a numismatic premium. A typical uncirculated example might be valued at a few dollars, with the price increasing for coins in higher grades, particularly those professionally graded MS-65 or better.
Additionally, the San Francisco Mint produced proof versions of the 1972 half dollar for collectors, which can be identified by an "S" mint mark. These coins feature a special mirror-like finish and were not intended for general circulation. A 1972-S proof half dollar is also a copper-nickel clad coin and is generally worth a few dollars, depending on its condition and whether it remains in its original government packaging. Therefore, unless the coin is a high-grade uncirculated specimen or a proof coin, its monetary value is limited to 50 cents.
