1982 George Washington Commemorative Silver Half Dollar Value Guide

The 1982 George Washington Commemorative Half Dollar holds a prestigious place in numismatic history as the first modern commemorative coin issued by the United States Mint. Authorized to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Washington's birth, its release successfully revitalized the U.S. commemorative coin program after a 28-year hiatus.

What affects the value of 1982 George Washington Commemorative Silver Half Dollar?

• Condition and grading, with high-grade MS70 or PF70 specimens commanding premiums above the $25-$30 average.
• Presence of original United States Mint packaging and the included Certificate of Authenticity.
• The current market spot price of silver, which provides a baseline bullion value for the 0.3617 troy ounces of silver content.
• Strike type, as collectors often distinguish between the mirror-like proof finish and the satin uncirculated finish.

How to Identify 1982 George Washington Commemorative Silver Half Dollar?

• Verify the obverse design featuring George Washington on horseback, designed by Elizabeth Jones.
• Check the reverse for the depiction of Washington's home, Mount Vernon, above a heraldic eagle.
• Confirm the 90% silver composition, as these were the first 90% silver coins produced by the Mint since 1964.
• Look for the 'S' mint mark for San Francisco proof strikes or the 'D' mint mark for Denver uncirculated strikes.

History of 1982 George Washington Commemorative Silver Half Dollar

The 1982 George Washington Commemorative Half Dollar was the first modern commemorative coin issued by the United States Mint. It was authorized to celebrate the 250th anniversary of George Washington's birth. The coin was highly popular and marked the resurgence of commemorative coin programs in the U.S.