The 1944 Walking Liberty half-dollar is considered one of the most beautiful coins in U.S. history. It’s a popular item among collectors and is made of 90% silver and 10% copper. The coin weighs 12.50 grams, has a diameter of 30.63 millimeters, and was produced from 1916 to 1947.
On the front (obverse) of the coin, there’s an image of Liberty walking while holding oak and laurel branches, with the sun and part of the American flag behind her. The words “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “1944” are also on the coin.
The back (reverse) features an eagle with spread wings perched on a rock, with a mountain pine sapling growing nearby. It has inscriptions that read “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “HALF DOLLAR.”
The coin’s design was created by Adolph A. Weinman, a well-known engraver and sculptor. Over time, this design was replaced in 1948 by the Franklin half dollar.
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1944 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Varieties
There are three main types of 1944 Walking Liberty half dollars. These varieties are based on where the coin was minted:
- 1944-D (Denver Mint)
- 1944-P (Philadelphia Mint, no mint mark)
- 1944-S (San Francisco Mint)
The mint mark (D or S) is located on the reverse side, at the lower left. Coins minted in Philadelphia do not have a mint mark.
Minting and Varieties:
- 1944-D: 9,769,000 coins produced
- 1944-S: 8,904,000 coins produced
- 1944-P: 28,206,000 coins produced
- Total minted: 46,879,000
1944-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The 1944-D Walking Liberty half dollar was minted in Denver. This variety can be worth between $14 and $322 or more, depending on its condition. Around 9.7 million of these coins were made. The “D” mint mark is located on the reverse side, near the bottom.
1944-P Walking Liberty Half Dollar
Philadelphia’s mint produced the largest number of 1944 Walking Liberty half dollars, with over 28 million coins made. The price for these coins ranges from $17 to $37 or more. These coins are known for a frosty white luster but often have poor details due to the focus being on war efforts at the time.
1944-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar
Minted in San Francisco, the 1944-S is a bit harder to find in good condition due to poor strikes, especially on Liberty’s left hand. About 8.9 million coins were made, and their value ranges from $28 to $38 or more, depending on the grade.
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Errors in the 1944 Walking Liberty Half Dollar
Due to the war, quality control at the mint was not perfect, so some 1944 Walking Liberty half dollars have errors. The most common are “doubled die” errors, where the die strikes the coin twice, and “repunched mint marks” (RPM), where the mint mark was punched twice.
Some coins even lack the designer’s initials, “AW,” due to worn-out dies.
What Is the Value of a 1944 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
Although the face value of the coin is $0.50, its actual worth is higher because of the silver content. As of now, the melt value of the silver in the coin is about $8.60. However, depending on its condition, the coin can be worth much more.
Here’s a breakdown of prices based on condition:
- Good condition: $13 to $20
- Extremely fine condition: $18 to $24
- Uncirculated (MS-60): $20 to $24
- Gem uncirculated (MS-65 or better): $80 to $18,975, depending on rarity and condition.
How Does Coin Grading Work?
Coins are graded on the Sheldon scale from 1 to 70, with higher numbers indicating better condition. Here’s a quick guide:
- G-4 (Good): Well-worn but still identifiable
- F-12 (Fine): Moderate wear, but major details are still visible
- XF-40 (Extremely Fine): Minor wear, most design details are sharp
- AU-50 (Almost Uncirculated): Slight signs of wear on the high points
- MS-60 to MS-70 (Mint State): No wear at all, with MS-70 being a perfect coin
Where to Buy or Sell 1944 Walking Liberty Half Dollars
You can buy or sell 1944 Walking Liberty half dollars online through platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy. Social media groups and forums dedicated to coin collecting can also be useful. If you prefer seeing the coin before buying, try visiting local coin shops, pawnshops, or antique stores. Auctions, both online and in-person, are another option for rare or high-value coins.
Ethan is a passionate rare coin collector with years of experience uncovering the stories and history behind unique coins. His insightful articles are a go-to for anyone curious about coin values or their fascinating backstories.