37 Ultra Rare Pennies: The Walking Liberty Half Dollar is widely celebrated as one of the most beautiful coins ever issued by the United States Mint. Produced from 1916 through 1947 and designed by Adolph A. Weinman, the series blends powerful symbolism with refined artistry. Among all dates, the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar stands out due to its multiple mint mark varieties, limited high-grade survivors, and strong collector demand. Exceptional examples have reached prices approaching $175,000, making this issue especially attractive to advanced collectors.
1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Varieties and Value Chart
| Variety | Mint Mark Placement | G-4 | F-12 | EF-40 | MS-65 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1917 Philadelphia | None | $20 | $40 | $150 | $5,000+ |
| 1917-D Obverse | Front | $50 | $150 | $1,000 | $50,000+ |
| 1917-D Reverse | Back | $30 | $75 | $400 | $15,000+ |
| 1917-S Obverse | Front | $75 | $200 | $1,500 | $175,000+ |
| 1917-S Reverse | Back | $40 | $100 | $600 | $20,000+ |
Historical Context of the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The year 1917 marked a defining moment for the United States as the nation entered World War I. Economic pressures and patriotic sentiment influenced many aspects of American life, including coinage. The Walking Liberty design reflected optimism and resilience during uncertain times. Liberty moving toward the sunrise symbolized hope, national strength, and the pursuit of freedom.
Artistic Design and Symbolism
The obverse presents Lady Liberty wrapped in the American flag, stepping forward with confidence while holding branches symbolizing peace and endurance. The reverse features a bold eagle resting on a rocky ledge beside a young pine tree, representing stability and growth. This striking imagery is one reason the Walking Liberty Half Dollar is often ranked among the most admired U.S. coin designs.
Mint Locations and Unique Mint Mark Positions
The 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar was struck at three mints: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. What makes this year unusual is the change in mint mark placement during production. Early strikes placed the mint mark on the obverse, while later issues moved it to the reverse. This change resulted in multiple collectible varieties within a single year.
Recognized 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Varieties
Collectors recognize five primary varieties from this date:
1917 Philadelphia with no mint mark
1917-D with obverse mint mark
1917-D with reverse mint mark
1917-S with obverse mint mark
1917-S with reverse mint mark
Coins with obverse mint marks are generally more difficult to locate, particularly in higher grades. San Francisco issues are especially rare in mint state condition.
Factors That Influence 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Value
Several factors directly affect market value:
Mint of origin
Mint mark position
Overall condition
Surviving population
Strike quality and visual appeal
Coins with sharp details and minimal wear often command significantly higher premiums than average examples.
Grading Standards and Condition Sensitivity
The Sheldon grading scale is used to evaluate condition, ranging from Poor to Mint State. High-grade 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollars are exceptionally rare due to heavy circulation and strike weaknesses common to the series. Even a single grade increase can dramatically affect value.
General grading characteristics include:
Good grades show heavy wear with outlines visible
Fine grades retain moderate detail on Liberty
Extremely Fine grades display light wear and strong definition
About Uncirculated coins show minimal wear on high points
Mint State coins show no wear and full original luster
Auction Records and Noteworthy Sales
Auction results highlight the strong demand for this issue. High-grade examples of the 1917-S Obverse Mint Mark have sold for well over $150,000, confirming its status as one of the most valuable Walking Liberty Half Dollars. Consistent auction performance reflects long-term collector confidence.
Investment Potential of the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar
Beyond its historical and artistic appeal, the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar offers solid investment potential. Coins with strong eye appeal, low population counts, and professional certification tend to perform well over time. Serious collectors often target high-grade and rare varieties for long-term appreciation.
Collector Tips for Buying 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollars
Buy from established dealers or reputable auctions
Choose professionally graded coins whenever possible
Focus on strike quality and surface originality
Consider collecting all mint mark varieties
Store coins properly to preserve condition
Proper Preservation and Storage
Correct storage is essential to maintain both value and appearance. Coins should be kept in inert holders, protected from humidity, light, and frequent handling. Wearing gloves helps prevent oils from damaging the surface. Proper care ensures long-term preservation.
Final Verdict
The 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar stands as a remarkable blend of American history, artistic excellence, and numismatic rarity. Its unique mint mark varieties and limited high-grade examples make it one of the most desirable half dollars in U.S. coinage. Whether collected for passion or investment, this coin remains a cornerstone of serious numismatic collections.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for educational purposes only and does not represent financial, investment, or appraisal advice. Coin values change based on market conditions and grading standards. Always consult certified professionals before buying, selling, or insuring any 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar.
