Walking Liberty (1/2 Dollar)
Description
Many investors consider this motif to be the most beautiful ever struck. Curiously the integrity of the composition was maintained throughout the wartime period. While other metals such as copper, tin and nickel appeared to have strategic value; none of the silver coins of the era were changed in composition.
The obverse depicts Miss Liberty walking toward the sun, her right arm outstretched, her left arm carrying a bundle of branches, and with a starry cape behind. LIBERTY is above, while IN GOD WE TRUST is to the lower right, and the date is below. The motif seems to have been inspired by Saint-Gaudens' motif for the illustrious double eagle of 1907. The reverse shows an eagle perched on a rocky crag, from which grows a pine branch, symbol of strength. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is above, E PLURIBUS UNUM is to the left, and HALF DOLLAR is below. The design has been a favorite with numismatists ever since the time of issue, and many consider it to be one of the most beautiful motifs ever employed on a circulating coin.
Grades available range from Good through superb Uncirculated, although sharply struck pieces are decidedly scarce. Proofs were minted from 1936 through 1942 and are available in proportion to the original mintages.
Valuation
- COIN NAME
- Walking Liberty (1/2 Dollar)
- DESIGNED BY
- Adolph A. Weinman
- ISSUE DATE
- 1916-1947
- COMPOSITION
- 0.900 part silver, 0.100 part copper
- DIAMETER
- 30.6 mm
- WEIGHT
- 192.9 grains
- EDGE
- Reeded
- BUS MINT
- 485,320,340
- PROOF MINT
- 74,400
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