The Walking Liberty Half Dollar, minted from 1916 to 1947, is one of the most iconic and beloved coins in U.S. history. Known for its stunning design by Adolph A. Weinman, this coin remains highly sought after by collectors and investors alike. Its value can vary widely based on factors like rarity, condition, and mint mark. In this guide, we’ll explore the history and key factors that affect the value of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar, along with an overview of its typical value range.
A Brief History of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar was introduced in 1916 as part of a broader effort to beautify American coinage. The obverse features Lady Liberty striding toward the dawn of a new day, symbolizing progress and freedom. The reverse depicts a majestic bald eagle perched on a rock, surrounded by oak and laurel branches. Minted at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints, the Walking Liberty Half Dollar was produced until 1947, when it was replaced by the Franklin Half Dollar.
Factors That Affect the Value of a Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The value of a Walking Liberty Half Dollar depends on several factors:
- Year and Mint Mark
- Coins minted in certain years or at specific mints are rarer and, therefore, more valuable. For example, the 1921 coins from the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints are among the rarest and most sought-after.
- Condition (Grade)
- The coin’s condition, or grade, is one of the most critical factors in determining its value. Coins in mint or uncirculated condition fetch much higher prices than those that are heavily worn.
- Rarity
- Some coins were produced in limited quantities or have become rare over time due to high demand. Coins like the 1919-D and 1921-S are examples of low-mintage coins that command a premium.
- Silver Content
- Each Walking Liberty Half Dollar contains approximately 0.3617 troy ounces of silver, which gives the coin intrinsic bullion value. The price of silver in the market can also influence the coin’s value.
The Value Range of Walking Liberty Half Dollars
The value of a Walking Liberty Half Dollar typically falls within the following ranges:
- Common Dates in Circulated Condition
- Value: $10 to $20
- These coins are primarily valued for their silver content and are widely available in circulated grades.
- Key Dates and Low Mintages
- Examples:
- 1916-S: $50 to $250 depending on condition
- 1921-D: $200 to $1,000 or more
- 1921-S: $300 to $1,500 or more
- Coins from key dates or low mintage years can command significantly higher prices, especially in better grades.
- Examples:
- Uncirculated Coins
- Value: $50 to $1,500+
- Coins in uncirculated condition, especially those from rare years, are highly desirable and can reach into the thousands of dollars.
- Proof Coins
- Value: $1,000 to $5,000 or more
- Proof coins from this series were only produced from 1936 to 1942 and are rare, making them highly prized by collectors.
How to Determine the Value of Your Walking Liberty Half Dollar
To accurately determine the value of your coin:
- Check the Date and Mint Mark
- Look for the mint mark (D for Denver, S for San Francisco, or no mark for Philadelphia) on the reverse of the coin near the rim, below the olive branch.
- Assess the Condition
- Use a grading scale, or consult a professional coin dealer, to evaluate your coin’s condition.
- Consult Current Market Prices
- Check the current silver market price and recent auction results for similar coins.
- Get a Professional Appraisal
- A trusted dealer like Premier Coin Galleries can provide an expert evaluation of your coin’s authenticity, rarity, and market value.
Investing in Walking Liberty Half Dollars
Walking Liberty Half Dollars are not only collectible but also an excellent investment in precious metals and history. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to numismatics, these coins offer a combination of aesthetic appeal and financial value.
At Premier Coin Galleries, we specialize in rare and historic coins, including Walking Liberty Half Dollars. Our team can help you find the perfect coin to add to your collection or investment portfolio.
Conclusion
The value range of a Walking Liberty Half Dollar can vary from as little as $10 for common dates in circulated condition to thousands of dollars for rare, uncirculated, or proof coins. Factors like year, mint mark, condition, and rarity play a significant role in determining its worth.
If you’re interested in buying or selling Walking Liberty Half Dollars, contact Premier Coin Galleries today. With over 30 years of experience, we’re your trusted source for rare coins and precious metals investments. Let us help you unlock the true value of your collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
A: It’s a silver U.S. half dollar minted from 1916 to 1947.
Q: Is the Walking Liberty Half Dollar silver?
A: Yes, the Walking Liberty Half Dollar is made of 90% silver and 10% copper. It was minted by the United States from 1916 to 1947, and each coin contains approximately 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver. Because of its silver content and iconic design, it’s popular among collectors and investors alike.
Q: How much is a Walking Liberty Half Dollar worth?
A: Its value depends on date, mint mark, silver content, and condition, typically $10 to $200+.
Q: What makes the Walking Liberty Half Dollar special?
A: The Walking Liberty Half Dollar is special for its iconic design by Adolph A. Weinman, featuring Lady Liberty striding toward the sunrise. Minted from 1916 to 1947 in 90% silver, it holds historical and collectible value, making it a favorite among both coin collectors and silver investors.
Q: How do I know if my Walking Liberty Half Dollar is worth money?
A:Look at the date, mint mark (below the motto on the reverse), and condition. Key dates like 1916-S or 1921-D are more valuable, and coins in better condition or with full details can be worth significantly more. All Walking Liberty Half Dollars also have 90% silver, adding intrinsic value.