Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916 - 1947)

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The Walking Liberty Half Dollar, designed by Adolph A. Weinman, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and iconic coins in American history. Struck between 1916 and 1947, this series replaced the Barber Half Dollar and remains a favorite among collectors for its timeless artistry and historical significance.

Key Specifications

  • Designer: Adolph A. Weinman
  • Issue Dates: 1916–1947
  • Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
  • Diameter: 30.6 mm
  • Weight: 12.50 grams (192.90 grains)
  • Edge: Reeded
  • Mintage Figures:
    • Business Strikes: 485,320,340
    • Proofs: 74,400

Design Details

Obverse

The obverse showcases Miss Liberty gracefully walking toward the rising sun, symbolizing hope and progress.

  • Key Features:
    • Liberty’s outstretched right arm conveys peace and freedom.
    • Her left arm cradles a bundle of branches, representing prosperity.
    • Draped in a starry cape, Liberty’s figure exudes strength and grace.
    • The inscriptions include LIBERTY at the top, IN GOD WE TRUST to the right, and the date below.

Weinman’s design draws inspiration from Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ renowned double eagle of 1907, blending artistry with symbolism.

Reverse

The reverse features a majestic eagle perched on a rocky crag, with a pine branch emerging—a symbol of resilience and strength.

  • Inscriptions:
    • UNITED STATES OF AMERICA arcs above the eagle.
    • E PLURIBUS UNUM appears to the left, with HALF DOLLAR below.

Collectibility and Market Appeal

The Walking Liberty Half Dollar has captivated collectors since its debut, and its enduring popularity is evidenced by its inclusion on the American Silver Eagle bullion coin, first issued in 1986.

  • Common Dates:
    • Coins from the 1940s are most readily available and affordable for collectors.
  • Grades:
    • Specimens range from Good to Uncirculated, with sharply struck coins being scarcer and more desirable.

Proof Coins

Proof versions were minted from 1936 to 1942, with availability reflecting their original mintages. These proofs are highly sought after by collectors looking for premium examples of the series.

Historical Significance

Introduced in 1916, the Walking Liberty Half Dollar replaced the long-running Barber design, showcasing a fresh and dynamic motif. Weinman’s artistic approach set a new standard for U.S. coinage design, capturing the spirit of the early 20th century.

The coin’s enduring appeal lies in its blend of symbolic imagery and aesthetic beauty, earning it a prominent place in American numismatics.

Why Collect Walking Liberty Half Dollars?

  1. Timeless Design: Often regarded as one of the most beautiful coin designs in U.S. history.
  2. Historical Relevance: Struck during a pivotal era in American history, including both World Wars and the Great Depression.
  3. Broad Availability: Common dates are accessible to collectors of all levels, while rarer examples and proofs offer challenges for advanced numismatists.

Explore Walking Liberty Half Dollars at ParadimeCoins.com

Add a piece of numismatic art and history to your collection with the Walking Liberty Half Dollar. At ParadimeCoins.com, we offer a carefully curated selection of coins in a range of grades to suit every collector's needs. Discover the beauty and legacy of this iconic series today!