CU-50c-1980D-03 Rim Cud

Description

Recorded as the third documented cud variety on the 1980-D Kennedy Half Dollar, CU-50c-1980D-03 represents a significant die failure on the largest circulating U.S. denomination of the modern era. The Kennedy Half Dollar's 30.6mm diameter creates substantial peripheral stress during striking, and the D mintmark confirms Denver Mint production. Gilroy Roberts' obverse portrait of President John F. Kennedy and Frank Gasparro's heraldic eagle reverse were struck on copper-nickel clad planchets weighing 11.34 grams, the standard composition adopted in 1971 after the brief 40% silver period of 1965-1970. The "03" suffix indicates this is the third distinct cud position cataloged for this specific date-mint combination, meaning at least three different 1980-D dies experienced catastrophic rim fractures severe enough to produce the characteristic raised, featureless metal blob at the coin's edge. No cross-references to other variety catalogs have been established beyond the Cuds on Coins designation. By 1980, the Kennedy Half Dollar was no longer widely circulating — the denomination had largely disappeared from commerce by the mid-1970s despite continued production — and most examples survived through bank-wrapped rolls and mint sets rather than pocket change. The combination of reduced circulation exposure and Denver's substantial mintage means surviving cud examples may exist in higher average grade than comparable varieties on heavily circulated denominations, though the cud itself remains the primary collectible attribute regardless of overall coin condition.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Chuck Newman
• CU-50c-1980D-03; none.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References