1. The problem asks for the initial value in the exponential function $$y = 1200 (1 + 0.3)^t$$. 2. The initial value in an exponential function of the form $$y = a(1 + r)^t$$ is the coefficient $$a$$, which represents the value of $$y$$ when $$t = 0$$. 3. Substitute $$t = 0$$ into the equation: $$y = 1200 (1 + 0.3)^0 = 1200 \times 1 = 1200$$ 4. Therefore, the initial value is $$1200$$. 5. The correct answer is option a. 1200.