Facebook PixelWalking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947) - History, Design & Value
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Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947)

Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947) - 1
Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947) - 2

Image Courtesy of Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS.com)

The Barber design had been in use since 1892, but in 1916, Adolph A. Weinman's design was chosen as the new half-dollar theme. In the same year, Weinman, who was a sculptor, also created the Liberty Head or "Mercury" dime. The Walking Liberty Half Dollar is one of the most beautiful and respected coins in the history of American numismatics. It was struck between 1916 and 1947. This fifty-cent piece, which Adolph A. Weinman designed, is still a popular choice for collectors.

Design
  • • The front side shows Miss Liberty striding toward the sun. Her right arm is outstretched, her left arm is carrying a bunch of branches, and there is a starry cloak behind her. LIBERTY is located above, IN GOD WE TRUST is in the lower right corner, and the date is located below. It appears that the motif was influenced by the one that Saint-Gaudens used for the famous double eagle in 1907.
  • • The opposite side depicts an eagle sitting on a cliff, with a pine branch growing from it, which represents power. The phrase "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" is located above, "E PLURIBUS UNUM" is located to the left, and "HALF DOLLAR" is located below.
History

The Walking Liberty Half Dollar was created in the early 20th century as part of a larger initiative to make American coins more attractive. It was minted in the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco Mints and took the place of the Barber Half Dollar. The coin was in circulation until 1947 when it was replaced by the Franklin Half Dollar.

Potential for Collecting and Investing

The coins from the 1910s and 1920s are prioritized merely because they are older and hence a little harder to find. Type collectors may easily find Liberty Walking half dollars, especially ones that were minted in the 1940s. The available grades vary from Good to Superb Uncirculated, but cleanly struck pieces are quite rare. The Walking Liberty Half Dollar is still a very collectible coin because of its:

  • • Artistic Excellence: Considered one of the most aesthetically pleasing coin designs in the United States.
  • • Silver Bullion worth: Its silver content guarantees that it will have inherent worth for a long time.
  • • Historical Significance: This period in U.S. history is significant since it includes both World Wars.
  • • Full Series Challenge: For numismatists, completing a full set, especially at higher grades, is a fulfilling goal.