The value of a 1972 fifty-cent coin, also known as the Kennedy Half Dollar, varies significantly based on its condition, mint mark, and the presence of any specific errors.
For most 1972 half dollars that have been in circulation, their value is typically just their face value of fifty cents. These coins are not made of silver but of a copper-nickel clad composition, so they do not have intrinsic melt value beyond their metal content.
However, the value can increase for coins in uncirculated, or mint, condition. A standard uncirculated 1972 half dollar might be worth between $2 and $5. Coins that have been professionally graded at a high level, such as MS65 or MS66, can command higher prices, potentially ranging from $15 to $30 or more.
The most significant factor for this specific year is a valuable error variety. Some 1972 half dollars struck at the Denver mint (indicated by a "D" mint mark) are missing the designer's initials, "FG" for Frank Gasparro, on the reverse side of the coin near the eagle's tail. This is known as the "No FG" error. A 1972-D "No FG" Kennedy Half Dollar is a sought-after collectible and can be worth a considerable amount, ranging from several hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on its condition. For instance, a professionally graded example like a PCGS AU58 "No FG" variety was listed for sale at nearly $2,000. Therefore, while most 1972 half dollars are worth only 50 cents, it is crucial to check any 1972-D coin for this specific and valuable error.
