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The Certified Kennedy Half Dollar 1982-P No "FG" MS63 NGC is an appealing Mint State example of a modern U.S. mint error variety that continues to garner collector interest due to its unique production anomaly. Graded Mint State 63 by Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), this coin exhibits full uncirculated detail and original mint luster, though with minor contact marks and surface abrasions typical for the MS63 level. What makes this coin particularly notable is the absence of the designer’s initials “FG” on the reverse—standing for Frank Gasparro, the designer of the coin’s reverse. This mint error is subtle yet distinct and recognized by major grading services and reference guides as a legitimate and sought-after variety.
The Kennedy half dollar was first issued in 1964 in honor of President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated the year prior. Designed by Gilroy Roberts (obverse) and Frank Gasparro (reverse), it quickly became one of the most collected modern coins in U.S. history. The obverse features a bust of President Kennedy facing left, with the inscriptions “LIBERTY” above, “IN GOD WE TRUST” split by the date “1982” below. In MS63 condition, Kennedy’s profile retains its sharp detail with well-defined hair, jawline, and cheekbones. The coin exhibits full mint brilliance and no wear from circulation, though light bag marks and minor scuffs may be visible in the fields or on high points.
The reverse of the Kennedy half dollar features the presidential seal—an eagle with outstretched wings clutching arrows in one talon and an olive branch in the other, with a shield on its breast and a ribbon in its beak inscribed with “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Surrounding the eagle are 50 stars and the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DOLLAR.” Typically, the designer Frank Gasparro’s initials “FG” appear to the right of the eagle’s tail feathers, near the lower field of the coin. On this rare “No FG” variety, those initials are entirely absent, the result of die abrasion or overpolishing during the minting process that removed them from the die surface. This error is distinct and intentional-looking when compared to standard strikes.
The 1982-P No “FG” variety is well-documented among modern half dollar enthusiasts and has been listed in respected reference works such as the “Cherrypickers’ Guide to Rare Die Varieties.” While the 1982 Kennedy half dollar was struck in relatively high numbers—over 10 million at the Philadelphia Mint—the No “FG” subtype is relatively scarce and represents a small percentage of that production. It is unknown exactly how many were produced, but demand from modern variety collectors ensures that certified examples like this one are highly desirable.
In MS63, this coin falls into the entry-level Mint State tier, where coins retain original strike sharpness and no wear, but may show minor surface flaws or small nicks in open fields. The strike on this coin is typically strong, with full legends and crisp detail on Kennedy’s hair and the eagle’s feathers. The absence of the “FG” initials is unmistakable to the trained eye and can be verified with minimal magnification. NGC certification confirms both the Mint State 63 grade and the No “FG” designation, making it a secure and authenticated collectible that stands apart from ordinary 1982 half dollars.
The 1982 Kennedy half dollar also holds significance as it was the first year in which the U.S. Mint ceased issuing these coins for general circulation with the same frequency as earlier years. Mint sets were not produced in 1982 or 1983, and most coins from these years entered circulation directly, contributing to the relatively poor survival of high-grade examples. This further increases the appeal of certified Mint State specimens, especially error varieties like the No “FG.” Collectors often seek 1982 and 1983 halves in top condition as they are generally harder to locate with strong luster and clean surfaces.
Modern variety collectors prize the No “FG” coin as a textbook example of how die polishing and minting processes can produce recognizable, collectible anomalies. Overpolished dies, which occur when mint workers aggressively smooth out clash marks or die imperfections, can inadvertently remove important design elements—such as the designer’s initials. These anomalies often go unnoticed until enough examples enter circulation and are identified by sharp-eyed collectors. The 1982-P No “FG” was one such discovery and has since become a known and respected variety in the hobby.
Though the No “FG” error also appears on other dates—such as the 1972-D and certain 1966 issues—the 1982-P is among the more consistently collected examples due to its prominence and the relative availability of uncirculated specimens suitable for certification. Still, the total number of certified MS63 or better examples remains small compared to the total mintage, supporting long-term interest among specialists in U.S. Mint errors and varieties.
The coin's composition is copper-nickel clad (75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper core), with a diameter of 30.6 mm and a weight of 11.34 grams. Despite its modern alloy, the Kennedy half dollar remains one of the most recognized and historically rich modern U.S. coins, and its error varieties enhance its collectibility. For those pursuing a complete Kennedy half set or a registry of significant modern varieties, the 1982-P No “FG” in Mint State condition is an essential piece.
The Certified Kennedy Half Dollar 1982-P No “FG” MS63 NGC combines modern mint error intrigue with the enduring legacy of the Kennedy series. Its certified grade ensures quality and authenticity, while its variety status makes it stand out in any collection. For collectors of U.S. Mint anomalies, 1980s coinage, or presidential-themed sets, this certified No “FG” variety offers a fascinating story and a respected position in the broader landscape of American numismatics.