The Walking Liberty half dollar is widely regarded as one of the most aesthetically pleasing coins to have circulated in the United States. Its combination of a striking design and substantial silver content has made it a favorite among modern coin collectors.
Among the various issues of the Walking Liberty half dollar, the 1917 series is especially sought after by collectors due to its unique characteristics. Although the coin was struck at three different mints, it is notable for having five distinct varieties. This is due to a change in the positioning of the mint mark halfway through the year.
1917 Half Dollar Value Breakdown
| Mint Mark | Fine | AU58 (About Uncirculated) | MS63 (Select Uncirculated) | MS65 (Gem Uncirculated) | MS67 (Superb Gem Uncirculated) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1917 No Mint Mark | $45 | $225 | $400 | $1,250 | $38,500 |
| 1917 “D” Obverse | $175 | $1,050 | $2,350 | $7,750 | – |
| 1917 “D” Reverse | $125 | $1,625 | $2,600 | $11,500 | – |
| 1917 “S” Obverse | $300 | $5,000 | $8,750 | $26,000 | $175,000 |
| 1917 “S” Reverse | $90 | $1,050 | $2,250 | $13,500 | $75,000 |
Grading the 1917 Half Dollar
To determine the value of a 1917 Walking Liberty half dollar, it’s important to assess its grade. A close inspection under a light will help you gauge the coin’s luster and the sharpness of its design.
- A circulated coin will show wear, with the design features becoming less distinct and less sharp.
- An uncirculated coin, on the other hand, will shine brightly under the light, with crisp, bold design elements and minimal wear.
If you’re unsure about the coin’s grade, consider using this basic grading scale:
- Basal State-1 to Good: Poor to moderate wear, with many details lost.
- Very Fine to About Uncirculated: Moderate wear, but many details are still visible.
- Mint State: Uncirculated or nearly uncirculated, showing little to no wear.
1917 No Mint Mark Half Dollar
The 1917 Walking Liberty half dollar was designed by Adolph A. Weinman, showcasing Lady Liberty walking toward the rising sun, carrying branches of oak and laurel. The reverse depicts a strong American eagle perched on a mountain, with a pine sapling growing nearby.
In 1917, the Philadelphia Mint produced nearly 12.3 million half dollars, making this issue relatively common, but the coins are still valuable due to their 90% silver content. A 1917 (P) half dollar in fine condition is valued at $45, with higher grades reaching impressive values—up to $38,500 for coins in MS67, of which only eight are known to exist.
1917 D Obverse Half Dollar
The 1917 D Obverse variety is part of a split series, with mint marks initially placed on the obverse under “In God We Trust.” However, the mint mark was relocated to the reverse mid-year. The D Obverse variety had a limited mintage of 765,400 and is highly sought after, with MS66 specimens valued at $52,500.
1917 D Reverse Half Dollar
After the mint mark placement was moved, the 1917 D Reverse variety was produced in a much larger mintage of 1.94 million. Despite the higher production, the D Reverse variety remains rarer in uncirculated grades and is worth significantly more than the D Obverse variety in mint-state conditions. For example, an MS65 D Reverse can be worth up to $11,500, while the highest graded coins (MS67) can reach a value of $55,000.
1917 S Obverse Half Dollar
The 1917 S Obverse is one of the scarcest and most valuable coins in the Walking Liberty series. Only around 200,000 of these coins were struck, making them incredibly rare. In fine condition, it is valued at around $300, with higher grades, such as MS65, reaching as much as $26,000. The most pristine examples, MS67, have been sold for upwards of $175,000.
1917 S Reverse Half Dollar
While the 1917 S Reverse variety had a higher mintage, it remains valuable due to its silver content and the prestige of the Walking Liberty series. These coins can be found in circulation, but in excellent condition, they can fetch impressive prices. MS65 coins are valued at around $13,500, and the rarest MS67 specimens can be worth up to $75,000.
Delamination Errors
Though not considered a mint error, some 1917 Walking Liberty half dollars display delamination errors, which occur when the metal layers of the coin separate due to poor adhesion. These errors are considered rare and can increase the coin’s collectible value.
Selling Your 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar
If you’re looking to sell your 1917 Walking Liberty half dollar, be sure to find a reputable coin dealer or use online platforms offering free appraisals and secure selling services.
By understanding the specifics of your coin’s mint mark, condition, and rarity, you can better gauge its value in today’s market.
FAQs
What does the mint mark on a 1917 half dollar indicate?
The mint mark shows where the coin was produced. Philadelphia mint coins have no mint mark, Denver coins have a “D,” and San Francisco coins have an “S.” The mint mark placement changed mid-year in 1917, leading to different varieties.
How much silver is in a 1917 half dollar?
The 1917 Walking Liberty half dollar contains 90% silver and 10% copper, which was standard for U.S. coins at the time.
Why are 1917 half dollars so valuable?
These coins are valuable due to their high silver content, the iconic design by Adolph A. Weinman, and the rarity of specific varieties, especially in high-grade conditions.
What is the difference between the 1917 D Obverse and D Reverse half dollars?
The D Obverse variety has the mint mark on the front (obverse) of the coin, while the D Reverse variety has the mint mark moved to the back (reverse) after a mid-year change in minting policy.
How do I properly grade a 1917 half dollar?
To grade your coin, check for luster, the sharpness of design features, and the amount of wear. Higher grades, like MS65 or above, should have minimal wear, crisp details, and strong eye appeal. Lower grades show signs of wear with weaker design elements.