Walking Liberty half dollars are renowned for their beauty and value, and they are among the most aesthetically pleasing US coins ever produced. This fifty-cent coin, which was produced from 1915 to 1947, endured the turmoil of the Great Depression and two World Wars in the United States. It is an emblem of American coinage, and those who possess one may find it to be exceedingly valuable.
Need to Know
The design of this coin, which depicts Lady Liberty in flowing garments gliding toward a rising sun, was particularly challenging to mint due to its intricacy. Rare are specimens that are flawless.
Most Valuable Walking Liberty Half Dollars
Each half dollar is worth at least its face value; however, numerous Walking Liberty examples are worth significantly more. The melt value of all of these coins is already greater than 50 cents, as they are composed of 90% silver. It is reasonable to anticipate that the majority of these coins in excellent condition will be worth at least $10. Nevertheless, there are a handful of exceptionally valuable examples that you may wish to monitor.
1919-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The 1919 Walking Liberty half dollar from the Denver Mint is highly valued by collectors, as it is considered the most difficult to locate in “Gem” condition. In Denver, there were only 1.1 million of these coins produced, and only a small number of them possess the necessary detail to be classified as a Gem.
In the years immediately following World War I, a significant number of these coins were weathered by circulation, resulting in an even decrease in their number of survivors. This 1919-D half dollar, which was in Gem condition, was auctioned in 2004 and sold for $270,250.
1921-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The 1919-S actually had fewer coins issued, despite the fact that the 1919-D is the rarest in Gem condition. In 1921, the San Francisco Mint produced a mere 548,000 of these, and a significant number of them were disseminated.
During this period, the average hourly wage was fifty cents, and the economy began to falter, prompting a small number of individuals to accumulate half dollars in coin collections. In 2016, a pristine state example was sold for $188,000.
1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The 1921-D is an additional Walking Liberty half dollar that is exceedingly uncommon in immaculate condition. The Denver Mint’s issue was also widely circulated, making it rare to locate them in pristine condition. The value is significantly increased when a high-quality strike is included. In 2018, a single 1921-D was sold for $168,000.
1917-S Obverse Mintmark Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The mintmark was visible on the obverse (or heads) of the Walking Liberty silver half dollar during its initial years of production. The mint eventually became concerned that the mintmark appeared to be an error or defect in the coin’s die. Consequently, in 1917, they relocated the mintmark to the reverse.
Very few 1917 coins were produced with the mark on the obverse, and they are exceedingly uncommon. Even more uncommon are they when they are in fine condition. $152,750 was the price of one that was sold in 2015.
1944 Walking Liberty Half Dollar
While the 1944 Walking Liberty 50-cent piece is not uncommon (over 28 million were produced), it is nearly impossible to locate one with negligible circulation wear and robust details.
Although this coin is in mint condition, it occasionally lacks the necessary detail to accentuate the folds of Lady Liberty’s attire. A high-grade item was sold for $109,250 in 2010.
Quick Tip
The 1941, 1942, 1943, and 1944 coins are not among the most valuable in general due to the significant number of business strike coins that were produced during the war years. On the other hand, proof coins from the wartime era and mint state coins that were not circulated can be quite valuable. In addition, there is a mint error that includes a repunched mintmark (D over S) and a 1942/1943 overstrike.
What to Look for in a Walking Liberty Half Dollar
In general, a Walking Liberty silver half dollar is worth at least a few dollars; however, there are certain factors to consider when examining the high-value coins. As you expand your collection or determine which coins are the most valuable, the following are a few suggestions to assist you.
Early years – Although mid-range years of the coin, such as the 1937 Walking Liberty half dollar, are always valuable, the earliest years are generally more valuable.
Errors – Due to their rarity, minting errors, such as a double mintmark or overdate, may be more valuable.
Quality strike – It is exceedingly uncommon to locate a coin in excellent condition and with the finest details, as this coin was exceedingly challenging to strike.
Walking Liberty Uncirculated Condition 50-cent pieces are more valuable than those that have been transferred frequently and have experienced significant deterioration.
One of the Most Collectible American Coins
The Walking Liberty half dollar is an emblem of American currency due to its association with the First World War, the Great Depression, and the Second World War. It is unsurprising that this coin is one of the most sought-after due to its gorgeous design and the inherent value of its silver content, which is difficult to mint.
FAQs
1. What makes a Walking Liberty half dollar valuable?
The rarity, condition, mint mark, and historical significance contribute to its value.
2. Which Walking Liberty half dollars are the most sought after?
Key dates like 1916-S, 1921-D, and 1938-D are highly sought after by collectors.
3. How can I tell if my Walking Liberty half dollar is rare?
Check the mint mark, date, and grade; consulting a coin expert or guide can confirm its rarity.
4. Where can I sell a valuable Walking Liberty half dollar?
You can sell it through coin dealers, auctions, or online marketplaces like eBay or Heritage Auctions.