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- Product ID: 9680
The 1982 George Washington Commemorative Half Dollar is a special issue coin celebrating the 250th anniversary of the birth of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Issued by the U.S. Mint, this coin was part of a larger commemorative program that honored Washington’s legacy and his critical role in the founding of the United States. The coin is notable for being struck in 90% silver, a hallmark of many commemorative coins minted by the U.S. Mint during this era. The half roll (20 pieces) of these coins, in both uncirculated and proof condition, is a highly desirable set for collectors who appreciate the history and craftsmanship associated with U.S. commemorative coinage. The 1982 George Washington Commemorative Half Dollar is a prime example of the nation’s tradition of producing coins that commemorate significant historical figures and events.
The history behind the 1982 George Washington Commemorative Half Dollar is rooted in the celebration of George Washington’s birth, which took place on February 22, 1732. Washington is regarded as one of the most important figures in American history, having led the Continental Army to victory during the Revolutionary War and later serving as the first president of the United States from 1789 to 1797. The U.S. Mint chose to commemorate this milestone by issuing a special coin to honor his contributions to the nation. As part of the broader 1982 commemorative coin series, the George Washington Half Dollar was issued in both proof and uncirculated finishes. This coin is a reminder of Washington’s impact on the development of the United States and continues to be a significant piece of U.S. numismatic history.
The design of the 1982 George Washington Commemorative Half Dollar is striking and reflective of Washington’s historical importance. On the obverse of the coin, artist John Flanagan’s portrait of George Washington is depicted, which was inspired by the famous image of Washington found on the original 1792 “Liberty Cap” half cent. The portrait shows Washington facing left, wearing a military uniform, with his facial features sharply defined and conveying strength and dignity. This design has become iconic in American numismatics, as Flanagan’s rendering of Washington is one of the most recognizable and respected images of the first president. The inscription “LIBERTY” arches across the top of the obverse, with the date “1982” placed below the portrait. Additionally, the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” appear to the left of Washington’s bust, underscoring the nation's belief in divine providence.
The reverse of the coin features a design by Frank Gasparro, which shows a representation of George Washington’s home, Mount Vernon, located in Virginia. The building is shown in profile, with the surrounding landscape beautifully detailed. The reverse also includes the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DOLLAR,” along with the mintmark (either "D" for Denver or "S" for San Francisco) depending on where the coin was struck. The reverse design reflects Washington’s connection to his home and the land that he cherished, which was vital to his personal and political life. The inclusion of Mount Vernon ties the coin to Washington’s legacy beyond his military and political achievements, providing a glimpse into the life of the man who helped shape the United States. The elegant design and intricate detailing on both sides of the coin capture the essence of Washington’s life and legacy.
The 1982 George Washington Commemorative Half Dollar was produced in both proof and uncirculated finishes. The uncirculated versions were struck at the Philadelphia Mint, while the proof versions were minted at the San Francisco Mint. The proof coins feature a high-quality, mirror-like finish, with the images sharply contrasted against the polished background, making the designs stand out with exceptional clarity and precision. The uncirculated coins, while still of high quality, are produced with a less polished finish and are intended for general circulation or for collectors who prefer coins with a more matte appearance. Both versions, however, were produced using 90% silver, making them particularly valuable to collectors, as the intrinsic value of the metal adds to the coin's appeal. These coins were sold individually or in sets, including the option of purchasing a full roll (20 coins), which is a popular option for collectors who want to acquire multiple examples in original packaging.
The mintage of the 1982 George Washington Commemorative Half Dollar was limited, which adds to its desirability and value. The U.S. Mint produced a total of 8,654,358 of the coins, which were released in both proof and uncirculated formats. Of these, only a small portion was reserved for the sale of full rolls of uncirculated coins, further increasing their scarcity in this format. The limited mintage and the historic significance of the coin ensure that the 1982 George Washington Half Dollar remains an important piece in the U.S. Mint’s commemorative series. Additionally, the 90% silver content enhances the coin’s value in terms of both numismatic appeal and precious metal content. The demand for these coins has remained steady over the years, with collectors continuing to appreciate their historical relevance and the connection to one of America’s most revered leaders.
The coin's condition is crucial to its value in the numismatic market. The certified grade of the 1982 George Washington Commemorative Half Dollar, whether in uncirculated or proof form, directly affects its desirability and price. In this set, the coins are in uncirculated condition (also referred to as “unc”), meaning they have not been used in circulation and retain their original luster, sharpness, and details. These coins have been carefully stored and are free from any wear, tarnish, or damage, ensuring their pristine condition. The roll of 20 coins in uncirculated condition is a particularly valuable find for collectors, as acquiring a set in such high quality is increasingly rare. In contrast, the proof versions of the coin, with their polished, mirror-like finish, are often graded as PR69 or higher, with only the slightest imperfections allowed. The condition of each coin plays an important role in determining its current market value and potential for future appreciation.
The 1982 George Washington Commemorative Half Dollar Roll (20 coins) is a coveted piece for collectors and investors alike. The set’s historical significance, coupled with the high-quality minting and the limited mintage, makes it a worthy addition to any collection. Whether sought after for its silver content, its ties to American history, or its status as part of the U.S. Mint’s commemorative series, the coin remains an essential piece of numismatic heritage. The roll of 20 coins provides an opportunity for collectors to acquire a complete set of this beautiful coin in uncirculated condition, a rare and valuable asset that continues to hold lasting appeal for generations to come.