1946-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar Value Guide

The 1946-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar represents the penultimate year of Adolph A. Weinman's legendary design before the series concluded in 1947. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, this 90% silver coin is highly sought after by collectors for its iconic depiction of Lady Liberty draped in the American flag.

What affects the value of 1946-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar?

• Condition and Grade: Higher mint state (MS) grades significantly increase value beyond the $45.00-$50.00 range.
• Luster: Original mint bloom and lack of heavy surface abrasions or 'bag marks' enhance collector appeal.
• Strike Quality: San Francisco strikes from this era can vary; a sharp strike on Liberty's hand and the eagle's feathers commands a premium.
• Silver Spot Price: As a 90% silver coin, the intrinsic bullion value provides a baseline for the market price.

How to Identify 1946-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar?

• Locate the 'S' mint mark on the reverse side, positioned near the rim at the lower left below the eagle's branch.
• Verify the 1946 date on the obverse below Lady Liberty's feet to ensure it is the correct late-series issue.
• Check for the designer's initials 'AAW' on the reverse under the eagle's wing to confirm the authentic Weinman design.
• Examine the coin's edge for a reeded texture, consistent with the 90% silver and 10% copper composition.

History of 1946-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar

First minted in 1916, the Walking Liberty Half Dollar is widely considered one of the most beautiful American coins ever produced. The design by sculptor Adolph A. Weinman replaced the Barber coinage and depicts Lady Liberty striding toward the dawn of a new day, draped in the American flag. This specific 1946 issue was struck at the San Francisco Mint during the penultimate year of the series before it was replaced by the Franklin Half Dollar in 1948.