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 blog post, we’ll explore the key aspects that determine the value of a Walking Liberty Half Dollar and provide an overview of its 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.