The 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar represents a captivating piece of numismatic history, cherished by collectors and investors alike. In this article, we will delve into the value, price, and essential details of this iconic silver half dollar coin. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of coin collecting, understanding the factors that influence the value of the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is crucial. This article serves as a comprehensive guide, offering insights that can help you make informed decisions when buying or selling this remarkable coin.
What is the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
The 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is a United States coin that features an iconic design created by sculptor Adolph A. Weinman. This coin, which is part of the Walking Liberty series, showcases Lady Liberty striding confidently forward, clutching a branch of laurel in her right hand and a shield in her left. The reverse features an eagle standing on a rocky ledge, symbolizing strength and freedom. This design has garnered admiration and respect among coin collectors and historians alike.
Minted by the United States Mint, the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is composed of 90% silver, making it a valuable piece not only for its artistic design but also for its precious metal content. This coin is part of a larger series that began in 1916 and continued until 1947, making it a significant part of American numismatic history. Collectors often seek this half dollar for its historical importance and aesthetic appeal.
What is the value of the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
The value of the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar varies based on several factors, including its condition, mint mark, and market demand. As of now, collectors can expect the value to range from approximately $10 to $50 for average circulated coins. Uncirculated examples and those in premium condition can command significantly higher prices, sometimes reaching several hundred dollars at auction.
To accurately assess the value of your 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar, consider consulting a professional coin grading service or using resources such as price guides and auction results. The market for silver coins fluctuates, so staying informed about current trends can provide you with a better understanding of your coin’s worth.
How does the mint mark affect the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar value?
The mint mark on a coin indicates where it was produced, and it can significantly influence its value. The 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar was minted in three locations: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). Coins with the ‘S’ mint mark tend to be more valuable due to their lower mintage numbers. For example, the 1939-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar is rarer than its Philadelphia counterpart, often leading to a higher market price.
Collectors often seek out coins from specific mints to complete their collections, which can drive up demand and, consequently, the price of the coin. When evaluating your coin, always check for the mint mark location to understand its potential value better.
What are the key features of the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
The 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar exhibits distinctive features that make it easily recognizable. The obverse side, featuring Lady Liberty, showcases intricate details in her flowing gown and the rays of the sun, which symbolize hope and freedom. The reverse side displays an eagle with outstretched wings, perched on a rock, surrounded by the inscriptions “United States of America” and “Half Dollar.”
In addition to its stunning design, the coin’s composition of 90% silver and 10% copper adds to its intrinsic value. The weight of the coin is 12.5 grams, with a diameter of 30.6 mm. Collectors appreciate these physical characteristics, which contribute to the overall appeal of the Walking Liberty series.
How does the condition of the coin impact its price?
The condition, or grade, of the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar plays a crucial role in determining its price. Coins are graded on a scale from Poor (P) to Perfect Uncirculated (MS-70). A coin’s condition reflects its wear and overall appearance, with higher grades commanding higher prices. For example, a coin in Extremely Fine (EF) condition may fetch a price significantly higher than that of a coin in Good (G) condition.
Where can you buy or sell a 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
When it comes to buying or selling a 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar, various avenues are available. Local coin shops often provide a safe environment for transactions, allowing you to inspect the coin before making a purchase. Additionally, online platforms such as auction sites and specialized coin dealers offer a broader selection of coins.
For those looking to sell their coins, Accurate Precious Metals is a reputable dealer you can trust. They specialize in precious metals and provide a transparent buying and selling process. Keep in mind that they do not offer free shipping unless your order is large enough, and they do not yet have storage solutions for metal products.
What is the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar mintage?
The mintage figures for the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar provide insight into its rarity and potential value. The United States Mint produced a total of approximately 2.5 million coins in Philadelphia, around 500,000 in Denver, and just over 1 million in San Francisco. These numbers suggest that the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is relatively common, especially the Philadelphia version. However, the 1939-S is less common, making it more sought after by collectors.
Understanding the mintage can help you gauge the coin’s rarity and potential investment value. Coins with lower mintage numbers often command higher prices, as collectors actively seek them out to complete their collections.
How to grade the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
Grading the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar requires careful evaluation of its physical condition. Several grading scales exist, but the Sheldon Scale is the most widely used in numismatics. This scale ranges from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Uncirculated). Familiarize yourself with the criteria for each grade by examining various examples of the Walking Liberty series.
When grading your coin, consider factors such as surface wear, luster, and overall appearance. Look for specific attributes, such as the sharpness of details and the presence of any blemishes or marks. If you’re unsure about your grading skills, consider consulting a professional grading service for a more accurate assessment.
What is the melt value of the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
The melt value of the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is an essential factor for investors and collectors. As a silver coin, its melt value depends on the current market price of silver. Since the coin contains 0.3617 ounces of pure silver, you can calculate its melt value by multiplying the current price of silver by the amount of silver in the coin.
Where can you find auctions for the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
Finding auctions for the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar can be an exciting venture for collectors. Online auction platforms such as eBay and Heritage Auctions frequently list these coins, allowing you to bid and potentially acquire a valuable piece for your collection. Participating in live auctions can also provide a thrilling experience as you compete with other collectors for the coins you desire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the significance of the Walking Liberty design?
The Walking Liberty design holds great significance in American numismatics. It represents the ideals of liberty and freedom, symbolizing the nation’s values during a time of historical change. The design has remained popular among collectors for its aesthetic beauty and cultural importance.
How can I ensure the authenticity of my 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
To ensure the authenticity of your coin, consider seeking professional grading services or purchasing from reputable dealers. Examine the coin closely for details such as the mint mark and design elements, and compare it against certified examples.
Are there any variations or errors in the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
While the 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar has no major recognized varieties, minor errors can occur during minting. These errors may involve double strikes or misaligned dies, adding uniqueness and potential value to those specific coins.
How can I clean my 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
Cleaning coins is generally not recommended, as it can diminish their value. If you feel it necessary to clean your coin, use a gentle method such as rinsing with distilled water. Avoid abrasive materials or chemicals that can scratch or tarnish the coin’s surface.
Where can I find more information on coin collecting?
Numerous online resources and communities exist for coin collectors. Websites such as the American Numismatic Association and Coin World provide valuable information, articles, and forums where collectors can share knowledge and experiences.
Key Takeaways
- The 1939 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is a valuable coin with historical significance.
- Its value varies based on condition, mint mark, and market demand.
- Condition plays a critical role in determining the coin’s price.
- Consulting Accurate Precious Metals can help you buy or sell your coin.
- Mintage figures indicate rarity, with the 1939-S being the most sought after.
- Grading the coin accurately is essential for understanding its value.
- The melt value provides a baseline for selling, but collector demand can exceed this.
- Auction platforms and local shows offer great opportunities to find or sell coins.
Sources
- “Walking Liberty Half Dollar.” U.S. Mint.
- “Understanding Coin Grading.” Professional Coin Grading Service.
- “The Walking Liberty Half Dollar.” Numismatic News.
- “Coin Melt Value Calculator.” Coinflation.
