The 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is more than just a piece of American currency; it’s a tangible link to a pivotal time in U.S. history. This iconic coin, known for its striking design and rich history, continues to captivate numismatists and collectors alike. Dive into this comprehensive guide to discover the value, history, and intriguing facets of the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar. Whether you’re an avid collector or just starting your journey in coin collecting, this article is a must-read.
The History of the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The United States Mint introduced the Walking Liberty Half Dollar in 1916. Designed by renowned sculptor Adolph A. Weinman, the coin features Lady Liberty striding confidently toward the dawn of a new day on its obverse. By 1939, the coin had already been in circulation for over two decades, becoming a staple of American coinage.
In 1939, the United States was emerging from the throes of the Great Depression, and the coin’s optimistic design served as a symbol of resilience and hope. The Walking Liberty Half Dollar remained in production until 1947, making the 1939 issue part of a significant period in U.S. monetary history.
What Makes the Walking Liberty Half-Dollar Design Special?
The design of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar remains one of the most admired in American coinage. Adolph Weinman’s depiction of Lady Liberty is both artistic and symbolic. The obverse shows Liberty in full stride, draped in the American flag, while the reverse features a majestic eagle perched on a mountain crag.
The combination of these elements creates a coin that’s not only functional but also visually captivating. Collectors revere the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar for this unique aesthetic, which has stood the test of time.
How to Determine the Value of a 1939 Walking Liberty Half-Dollar?
The value of a 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar can vary widely based on several factors. Condition or grade plays a critical role; coins in mint or uncirculated condition fetch higher prices than those in a circulated state.
Additionally, the value can depend on the specific mint mark, indicating where the coin was produced. The most common are the Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S) mints. Consulting a price guide or valuation chart can provide further insights into current market values.
What Are the Mint Marks and Their Importance?
Mint marks are tiny letters on the coin that indicate where it was minted. For the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar, you may find ‘P’ for Philadelphia, ‘D‘ for Denver, and ‘S‘ for San Francisco. Each mint mark can significantly impact the coin’s value.
Coins minted in Philadelphia are typically more common and may be of lower value compared to those from Denver or San Francisco. Collectors often seek out coins with ‘D‘ or ‘S‘ mint marks for their rarity and usually higher market value.
Where to Buy or Sell a 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
If you’re looking to buy or sell a 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar, Accurate Precious Metals is an excellent option. They offer a wide selection of gold, silver, and other precious metal products. Although they do not offer free shipping by default, large orders qualify for this service.
Accurate Precious Metals plans to provide storage services in the future, adding convenience for collectors and investors. Check their assortment for the best deals and to ensure you get the most value out of your investment.
What Should You Look for in the Coin’s Condition?
The condition of a 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is a crucial factor in determining its value. Coins with little to no wear and tear generally have higher numismatic value. Look for coins that have clear details and minimal scratches or smudges.
Collectors often use grading services like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) to accurately verify a coin’s condition. These services provide a grade that reflects the coin’s state, ranging from Good (G) to Mint State (M.S.).
What Is the Role of Certification in Evaluating Value?
Certification plays a significant role in evaluating a coin’s value. Professional organizations like PCGS or the Certified Acceptance Corporation (CAC) have authenticated and graded certified coins. A certified 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar often commands higher prices because buyers trust that the coin is genuine and accurately graded.
This authentication process adds another layer of credibility and can be particularly helpful when selling at auctions or to high-end collectors. Certification also provides a long-term safeguard for the coin’s value.
What can you expect in terms of the price guide and market trends?
Prices for the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar can fluctuate based on market trends and demand among collectors. Price guides and valuation charts offer a snapshot of what you can expect. These resources list prices for various grades and mint marks, providing a comprehensive view of current market averages.
Keep an eye on market trends and economic factors, as these can affect the price of silver and, by extension, the value of silver coins. Consistently monitoring reputable sources can help you make well-informed buying or selling decisions.
FAQ About the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar
Why Is the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Popular Among Collectors?
The 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar enjoys immense popularity among collectors for several reasons. Its historical significance and beautiful design make it a prized addition to any collection. Collectors also appreciate the coin’s 90% silver content and the value that this brings.
Moreover, the coin captures the spirit of a pivotal era in American history, making it more than just a monetary item. Its aesthetic appeal and historical context combine to make it an iconic piece of numismatic art.
How Can You Certify Your 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
Certification adds authenticity and value to your 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar. To certify your coin, submit it to a recognized grading service like PCGS or NGC. These organizations evaluate the coin’s condition, verify its authenticity, and assign it a grade.
Certified coins come with a certificate of authenticity and are often sealed in protective holders. These elements provide peace of mind for both buyers and sellers, ensuring a trustworthy transaction.
What Are the Most Common Mint Marks for the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
The most common mint marks for the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar are ‘P‘ (Philadelphia), ‘D‘ (Denver), and ‘S‘ (San Francisco). Each mint mark signifies where the coin was produced, which can impact its rarity and value.
Philadelphia coins are common, but those from Denver and San Francisco are rarer. Due to their scarcity, collectors are more interested in them.
What Affects the Price of a 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
Several factors affect the price of a 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar. The coin’s condition or grade is a primary determinant; uncirculated coins fetch higher prices. The specific mint mark also plays a significant role, with less common marks often being more valuable.
Market trends and silver prices can also impact the coin’s value, as it contains 90% silver. Keeping an eye on these elements will help you understand fluctuations in its market value.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways
- The 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is a collector’s treasure with historical significance and artistic value.
- Factors like the coin’s condition, mint mark, and certification significantly impact its value.
- Accurate Precious Metals is a recommended dealer for buying or selling these coins.
- Certification from reputable services like PCGS or NGC provides added credibility and value.
- Price guides and market trends offer valuable insights for making informed buying or selling decisions.
Sources
- Lange, David W. “History of the United States Mint.“ United States Mint, U.S. Department of the Treasury.
- Weinman, Adolph A. “The Walking Liberty Half Dollar Design.“ Professional Coin Grading Service, PCGS.
- Yeoman, R.S. “A Guide Book of United States Coins.“ Whitman Publishing, LLC.
- Newman, Eric P. “American Numismatic Society Database.“ Newman Numismatic Portal, Washington University in St. Louis.