A 1972-D half dollar is considered rare when it belongs to a specific variety that lacks the designer's initials "FG" on its reverse side. This particular characteristic distinguishes it from the vast majority of Kennedy half dollars minted in Denver in 1972.
The Elusive "No FG" Variety
The standard design for the Kennedy Half Dollar features the initials "FG" for Frank Gasparro, the coin's designer, subtly placed on the reverse. These initials are typically found between the eagle's left leg (when viewed from the perspective of someone looking at the coin's reverse) and its tail feathers.
However, a small percentage of 1972-D Half Dollars were struck from dies where these "FG" initials are completely missing. This absence is not due to wear or damage, but rather an error during the minting process, often caused by excessive die polishing or grease filling the initials on the die. Such an error leads to a distinctive and highly sought-after variety among coin collectors.
Identifying a Rare 1972-D Half Dollar
To determine if a 1972-D half dollar is the rare "No FG" variety, collectors should meticulously examine the coin's reverse.
- Year and Mint Mark: First, confirm the coin is dated 1972 and bears the "D" mint mark, indicating it was produced at the Denver Mint. The mint mark is located on the reverse, above the "half dollar" inscription.
- Locating the Initials: Next, turn your attention to the eagle on the reverse. Using magnification, carefully inspect the area between the eagle's left leg (the viewer's right leg) and its tail feathers.
- Absence of "FG": If the "FG" initials are not present in this specific location, you likely have the rare variety. The initials are usually small but clearly visible on a regular strike.
The rarity of these "No FG" 1972-D half dollars stems from the limited number of pieces that exhibit this distinct minting error, making them a significant find for numismatists.
Here's a quick reference for identifying features:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Year | 1972 |
Mint Mark | "D" (Denver) |
Location | Reverse side, between the eagle's left leg (viewer's right) and its tail |
Rarity | Due to the absence of "FG" initials in the specified location |