Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947)
Obverse (Front) Design
Reverse (Back) Design
Coin Specifications
Date Range
Denomination
Designer / Engraver
Mints
Composition
Precious Metal Content
Weight
Diameter
Edge
Mintage
History & Background
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar replaced the Barber half dollar in 1916. It was designed by Adolph A. Weinman, who also designed the Mercury dime that year. The design shows Liberty walking toward the sun, a sign of hope and progress.
The coin was struck at Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco in 90% silver until 1947, when it was replaced by the Franklin half dollar.
Weinman’s obverse is still in use. It was brought back in 1986 for the American Silver Eagle bullion coin, which has made the design familiar to a new generation of collectors.
Collecting Tips
- The 1916 coins and some early 1920s dates have low mintages and carry higher prices.
- Check Liberty’s hand and the eagle’s breast feathers, which wear first.
- Silver content gives the coin a floor value tied to the silver price.
Photographs by Grade
Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947) (1916–1947) — Photographs by Grade
MS63
MS64
MS65
MS66
MS67
Frequently Asked Questions about the Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947)
How much silver is in a Walking Liberty half dollar?
About 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver.
Who designed the Walking Liberty half dollar?
Adolph A. Weinman.
Is the American Silver Eagle related?
Yes. The American Silver Eagle uses an adaptation of the Walking Liberty obverse.
More Half Dollars
Franklin Half Dollar (1948-1963)
The Franklin Half Dollar, struck 1948 to 1963 in 90% silver, features Benjamin Franklin and the Liberty Bell and is popular with silver collectors.
Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 to Date)
The Kennedy Half Dollar, first issued in 1964 after the death of President Kennedy, was struck in 90% silver in 1964 and in lower-silver…
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