Age 59 1/2 is 6 months after the taxpayer attains age 59. It was covered in this topic a few years ago. From the top of that topic, scroll down to see my first answer that has a link too.
72(t)(2) clearly states: made on or after the date on which the employee attains age 59½
Since it was a 401K penalty can be avoided if separated from service at time of withdrawal.