Designed by: Adolph A. Weinman
Issue Dates: 1916-1947
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Diameter: 30.6 mm
Weight: 12.50 grams (192.90 grains)
Edge: Reeded
Business Strike Mintage: 485,320,340
In 1916 the design of Adolph A. Weinman was selected for the new half dollar motif to replace the Barber design which had been in use since 1892. Weinman, a sculptor, also produced the Liberty Head or "Mercury" dime introduced the same year. The obverse depicts Miss Liberty walking toward the sun, her right arm outstretched, her left arm carrying a bundle of branches, and with a starry cape behind. LIBERTY is above, while IN GOD WE TRUST is to the lower right, and the date is below. The motif seems to have been inspired by Saint-Gaudens' motif for the illustrious double eagle of 1907. The reverse shows an eagle perched on a rocky crag, from which grows a pine branch, symbol of strength. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is above, E PLURIBUS UNUM is to the left, and HALF DOLLAR is below.
The design has been a favorite with numismatists ever since the time of issue, and many consider it to be one of the most beautiful motifs ever employed on a circulating coin. The obverse design has been used on the American Silver Eagle since its inception in 1986, a tribute to its popularity with collectors.
Specimens of the Liberty Walking half dollar are readily available for the type collector, with those dated in the 1940s being most easily found. Grades available range from Good through superb Uncirculated, although sharply struck pieces are decidedly scarce.
