Hi @jmh
Aah, yes, you could write a custom query indeed.
1. Use get_posts to find all the posts
2. Use the update_field function to save the value
Please note that you will need to use the field_key instead of the field_name. The reason for this is explained int he update_field docs, but basically, ACF needs to know which field you have saved the value from.
Thanks
E