The 1941-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar is a beautiful and historically significant coin, representing an era of artistry and craftsmanship in American numismatics. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, the Walking Liberty Half Dollar has long been admired for its aesthetic appeal, and the 1941-S edition from the San Francisco Mint is a favorite among collectors.
This guide will explore the design, historical context, mintage, and value of the 1941-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar, offering key insights for coin enthusiasts.
Design and Features
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar is widely regarded as one of the most stunning U.S. coin designs. Adolph A. Weinman, also known for the Mercury Dime, created a design that celebrates freedom, patriotism, and hope.
- Obverse (Front): The obverse depicts Lady Liberty striding confidently toward the dawn of a new day, draped in an American flag. She holds branches of laurel and oak, symbolizing civil and military glory. The word “LIBERTY” arcs across the top, while “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the year “1941” appear below.
- Reverse (Back): The reverse features a majestic bald eagle perched on a rocky crag, with its wings partially spread. A sapling of mountain pine grows from the rock, symbolizing resilience. The inscriptions include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and the denomination “HALF DOLLAR.”
The intricate detail and artistry of this coin have made it a perennial favorite among collectors and historians alike.
Historical Context
The 1941-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar was minted during a time of uncertainty and preparation. The United States was on the brink of entering World War II, and the nation’s economy was recovering from the Great Depression. Coins like the Walking Liberty Half Dollar played a crucial role in everyday commerce and reflected the patriotic spirit of the time.
The San Francisco Mint’s production of the 1941-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar came at a time when the demand for coinage was steadily increasing, particularly on the West Coast.
Mintage and Specifications
The San Francisco Mint produced 8,098,000 Walking Liberty Half Dollars in 1941, making it one of the higher-mintage issues in the series. Despite this, well-preserved examples can still be challenging to find due to circulation wear and the San Francisco Mint’s tendency to produce coins with less sharp strikes.
Key specifications of the coin include:
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Weight: 12.5 grams
- Diameter: 30.6 mm
- Edge: Reeded
Value and Collectibility
The value of a 1941-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar depends on its condition and overall eye appeal. Coins graded by professional services like PCGS or NGC are highly sought after by collectors.
- Circulated coins: In lower grades like VG-8 to VF-20, these coins are valued at around $15 to $25, mainly for their silver content and historical significance.
- Uncirculated coins: Higher-grade examples (MS-60 to MS-65) can range from $100 to $600, depending on the sharpness of the strike and the coin’s luster.
- Key rarity: Coins graded MS-66 or higher are particularly rare and can sell for over $1,500, especially if they exhibit strong details and minimal marks.
San Francisco Mint coins often suffer from weaker strikes, making fully detailed examples even more desirable.
Tips for Collectors
- Focus on Strike Quality: Because many 1941-S coins have weaker strikes, look for examples with well-defined details, especially in Lady Liberty’s hand and the eagle’s feathers.
- Check for Luster: Coins with bright, original luster are more valuable and visually appealing.
- Buy Certified Coins: To ensure authenticity and accurate grading, purchase coins certified by PCGS, NGC, or ANACS.
Conclusion
The 1941-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar is a must-have for collectors of classic U.S. coinage. Its timeless design, historical significance, and investment potential make it a rewarding addition to any collection. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a novice collector, this coin offers an intriguing glimpse into America’s rich history and the artistry of its coinage.
FAQs
1. Why is the 1941-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar significant?
The coin represents a pivotal time in U.S. history, with its patriotic design symbolizing hope and resilience on the brink of World War II.
2. What is the value of a 1941-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
Values range from $15 for circulated coins to over $1,500 for high-grade uncirculated examples.
3. How can I identify a weak strike on a 1941-S Half Dollar?
Look closely at Lady Liberty’s hand and the eagle’s feathers. Weakly struck coins often lack detail in these areas.