1942 Proof Walking Liberty Half Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$60,000 PR68 08-22-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1942 Proof Walking Liberty Half Dollar is a proof half dollar struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Walking Liberty Half Dollars 1916-1947 series. With a mintage of 21,120, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 4 mint variants, representing only less than 1% of total production. The obverse features Liberty striding confidently toward the sunrise, draped in the American flag, carrying branches of laurel and oak symbolizing civil and military glory and the reverse displays an eagle perched on a mountain crag with wings partially unfurled, a sapling of mountain pine growing beside it. Produced during World War II, when the Mint altered coin compositions to conserve strategic metals for the war effort. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $635. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 12.5 grams, 30 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #6642.