The 1939-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar is a remarkable coin that has caught the attention of collectors for decades. With a striking design and historical significance, this coin continues to be a favorite among numismatists.
A Brief History of the 1939-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar
After a hiatus in 1938, the San Francisco Mint produced 2,552,000 Walking Liberty Half Dollars in 1939. While this might seem like a high number, it was significantly fewer than the coins minted in Philadelphia and Denver that same year. The lower mintage and its striking design make this coin particularly interesting for collectors.
During the mid-20th century, coin collecting became increasingly popular. Many people sought out coins with lower mintages, fearing they might miss out on valuable finds like the 1916-D Mercury Dime.
As a result, roll quantities of the 1939-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar were preserved, making high-quality examples readily available to this day.
The Design: A True Work of Art
The coin’s obverse features Lady Liberty in motion, draped in a flowing gown and carrying laurel and oak branches, symbolizing America’s civil and military achievements. She strides confidently toward the rising sun, offering a hopeful vision for the nation.
The reverse displays a proud eagle perched on a rocky outcropping, with a mountain pine sapling growing nearby—an image of strength and resilience.
This design was created by Adolph Alexander Weinman, one of the most renowned American coin designers. Weinman also designed the iconic Mercury Dime, further cementing his legacy in the world of numismatics.
Collectibility and Value
Despite its lower mintage, the 1939-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar is not considered a key date. However, its scarcity in top conditions adds to its allure.
Coins in MS65 grade are valued at around $275, while higher-grade examples in MS67+ can sell for thousands of dollars. The record for a top-grade MS68 coin exceeds $10,000, making it a sought-after piece for serious collectors.
How Much Is Your 1943 Liberty Half Dollar Worth Today?
Why This Coin Stand Out?
The 1939-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar is known for its striking challenges. Liberty’s hand and left leg often lack full definition, making coins with sharp details highly prized.
However, thanks to the preservation efforts of collectors during its time of issue, superb examples are still accessible.
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