1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar: The Walking Liberty Half Dollar holds a legendary place in American coin collecting. Created by sculptor Adolph A. Weinman, this silver half dollar debuted in 1916 and remained in production until 1947. Among all the dates in the series, the 1917 issue attracts exceptional attention because of its multiple mint mark styles, wartime background, and scarcity in top condition. For collectors, this coin represents a blend of beauty, history, and the possibility of extraordinary value, with elite examples known to reach prices as high as $175,000.
1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Value Overview
| Variety | Circulated Value Range | Extremely Fine (EF) | Mint State (MS-65+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1917 Philadelphia (No Mint Mark) | $20–$50 | $150+ | $5,000+ |
| 1917-D Obverse Mint Mark | $50–$200 | $1,000+ | $50,000+ |
| 1917-D Reverse Mint Mark | $30–$100 | $400+ | $15,000+ |
| 1917-S Obverse Mint Mark | $75–$300 | $1,500+ | $175,000+ |
| 1917-S Reverse Mint Mark | $40–$150 | $600+ | $20,000+ |
Historical Background
In 1917, the United States entered World War I, marking a turning point in national identity and global involvement. Coinage during this era reflected confidence, patriotism, and resilience. The Walking Liberty design perfectly captured these ideals. Liberty strides forward toward the rising sun, symbolizing hope and progress during uncertain times, while the eagle on the reverse conveys strength and endurance.
Artistic Design and Symbolism
The obverse portrays Lady Liberty wrapped in the American flag, stepping confidently toward a new day. She carries branches of laurel and oak, representing peace balanced with readiness for defense. On the reverse, a bold eagle stands atop a rocky outcrop beside a young pine sapling, a subtle symbol of renewal and national growth. Together, these elements make the Walking Liberty Half Dollar one of the most admired designs ever used on U.S. currency.
Mint Marks and Unique Varieties
What truly distinguishes the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is the placement of its mint marks. Coins were struck at three facilities: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Early in the year, mint marks appeared on the obverse beneath Liberty’s motto. Later, the mint mark was moved to the reverse. This change resulted in multiple collectible varieties that significantly affect rarity and market value.
Complete List of 1917 Varieties
Collectors recognize five distinct versions of the 1917 half dollar:
1917 with no mint mark from Philadelphia
1917-D with obverse mint mark
1917-D with reverse mint mark
1917-S with obverse mint mark
1917-S with reverse mint mark
Among these, the San Francisco obverse mint mark issue is considered the rarest and most valuable in high grades.
Rarity and Collector Demand
Scarcity varies widely depending on mint location and mint mark placement. Obverse mint mark coins are generally harder to locate, especially in well-preserved condition. San Francisco issues, in particular, show weaker strikes and lower survival rates in Mint State grades. Many enthusiasts attempt to assemble a full 1917 variety set, further driving demand and prices.
What Determines Value
Several elements combine to establish a coin’s worth:
Mint and mint mark position
Overall condition and amount of wear
Sharpness of strike and detail clarity
Visual appeal and original luster
Number of surviving high-grade examples
Even small improvements in condition can lead to dramatic increases in value.
Grading Standards Explained
Professional grading is essential for serious collectors. The Sheldon Scale is used to assess condition, ranging from heavily worn examples to flawless Mint State coins. For the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar, pieces graded MS-65 or higher are exceptionally rare. A single grade point difference at this level can translate into tens of thousands of dollars.
Market Performance and Auction Highlights
High-profile auctions have demonstrated the strength of this coin in the marketplace. Premium 1917-S obverse mint mark halves have surpassed $150,000 when certified in top grades. These results underline the coin’s reputation as both a collector favorite and a blue-chip numismatic asset.
Investment Considerations
Beyond its visual appeal, the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar has proven long-term investment potential. Coins with historical relevance, low population counts, and strong collector demand often show steady appreciation. Investors typically focus on certified examples with superior eye appeal, as these tend to perform best over time.
Practical Advice for Collectors
Anyone looking to purchase a 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar should approach the market carefully. Buying from established dealers or major auction houses reduces risk. Third-party grading adds confidence, while close attention to surface quality and strike strength helps ensure long-term satisfaction.
Care and Preservation
Proper storage plays a major role in maintaining value. Coins should be kept in inert holders, away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Direct handling should be avoided whenever possible, as skin oils can permanently affect surfaces.
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Final Verdict
The 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar stands as a timeless symbol of American artistry and resilience. Its combination of elegant design, wartime history, and multiple collectible varieties places it among the most desirable U.S. coins ever produced. For collectors and investors alike, owning a high-quality example is both a privilege and a potential financial triumph, with the finest specimens commanding values up to $175,000.
Disclaimer
Coin values mentioned in this guide are estimates based on historical data, market trends, and past auction results. Actual prices may vary due to condition, certification, demand, and broader market changes. This article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice.
