1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar No Mint Mark
Introduction
The 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar No Mint Mark is a rare coin that was produced in the United States in 1917. This coin is highly sought after by collectors due to its unique design and limited production. In this article, we will discuss the history of this coin, its design, and its value in today's market.
History of the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar No Mint Mark
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar was first introduced in 1916 as part of a redesign of the US coinage by the famous sculptor Adolph A. Weinman. The coin was produced until 1947 and is considered to be one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the United States Mint. The 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar was produced in three mints, Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. However, the coins produced at the Philadelphia Mint did not have a mint mark.
Design of the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The obverse of the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar features the iconic image of Lady Liberty walking towards the rising sun. The reverse of the coin features an eagle perched on a rock with its wings spread wide. The coin is made of 90% silver and 10% copper and has a diameter of 30.6mm.
Value of the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar No Mint Mark
The value of the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar No Mint Mark varies depending on its condition and rarity. As of 2021, the coin is valued at around $50 in circulated condition and over $1,000 in uncirculated condition. However, if the coin is graded by a professional grading service and is found to be in exceptional condition, it could be worth significantly more.
Why is the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar No Mint Mark so Rare?
The 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar No Mint Mark is rare because it was only produced at the Philadelphia Mint and did not have a mint mark. This was due to the fact that the Philadelphia Mint did not use mint marks on its coins until 1942. As a result, the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar No Mint Mark is highly sought after by collectors who are looking for a rare and unique coin to add to their collection.
How to Spot a Fake 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar No Mint Mark
Because of its rarity and value, the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar No Mint Mark is a popular target for counterfeiters. To spot a fake coin, collectors should look for signs of wear and tear that are consistent with the coin's age. Additionally, the weight and diameter of the coin should be consistent with the specifications of the genuine coin. Collectors should also look for any signs of casting, such as bubbles or rough edges, which are common in counterfeit coins.
Conclusion
The 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar No Mint Mark is a rare and highly sought after coin that is valued by collectors for its unique design and limited production. While the coin's value varies depending on its condition and rarity, it is generally considered to be a valuable addition to any coin collection. Collectors who are interested in purchasing a 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar No Mint Mark should be cautious of counterfeit coins and should only purchase from reputable dealers.