1940 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Value Guide

The 1940 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is a premier example of American numismatic artistry, featuring Adolph A. Weinman's iconic design of Lady Liberty draped in the flag. This specific year is highly collectible as a high-mintage, pre-war issue that often displays exceptional luster and strike quality.

What Is 1940 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Worth?

The typical price range for 1940 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is $45 - $45 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of a 'D' or 'S' mint mark can significantly increase the value over the Philadelphia strike.
• Overall surface preservation, specifically the absence of 'bag marks' or scratches on Liberty's torso and the eagle's breast.
• The level of original mint luster, as coins with a 'white' frosty appearance command higher premiums than toned examples.
• The sharpness of the strike, particularly on the lines of the American flag and the eagle's feathers.

How to Identify 1940 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?

• Verify the 90% silver and 10% copper composition which gives the coin a distinct metallic ring when handled.
• Look for the designer's initials 'AAW' located on the reverse side under the eagle's wing feathers.
• Check the mint mark location on the reverse; 1940 coins were struck in Philadelphia (no mark), San Francisco (S), or Denver (D).
• Examine the fine details of the laurel and oak branches held by Liberty to ensure they are crisp and not smoothed over.

History of 1940 Walking Liberty Half Dollar

The Walking Liberty Half Dollar was minted from 1916 to 1947 and is considered one of the most beautiful U.S. coins ever produced. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, it features a majestic depiction of Lady Liberty, striding forward with an outstretched arm, holding branches of laurel and oak. The reverse displays a powerful eagle perched on a mountain crag. This iconic design was later adapted for the American Silver Eagle bullion coin, minted starting in 1986, cementing its legacy in American coinage.