Walking Liberty Half Dollar Value
1916–1947 · 50¢ · 90% silver, 10% copper
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $12.00 |
| Good (G-4) | $14.00 |
| Fine (F-12) | $20.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $45.00 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $135.00 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $675.00 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1916-S | Obverse mintmark — first year, low mintage | $150–$3,000 |
| 1921 | Key date — lowest Philadelphia mintage | $200–$5,000 |
| 1921-D | Extremely rare key date | $500–$15,000 |
| 1938-D | Semi-key Denver issue | $50–$800 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- Adolph A. Weinman
- Years
- 1916–1947
- Denomination
- 50¢
- Composition
- 90% silver, 10% copper
- Diameter
- 30.6 mm
- Weight
- 12.5 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
Walking Liberty Half Dollar: History & Background
Designed by Adolph A. Weinman (who also designed the Mercury Dime), the Walking Liberty Half Dollar is widely considered the most beautiful US coin ever made. The obverse shows Liberty walking toward the sunrise draped in the American flag, while the reverse features an eagle in flight. Its design lives on as the obverse of the American Silver Eagle bullion coin.
How to Grade a Walking Liberty Half Dollar
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →