1942 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Mint Mark Location
The History of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar was a silver coin produced by the United States Mint from 1916 to 1947. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the U.S. Mint, and it remains highly sought-after by collectors and investors alike. The coin features a design by sculptor Adolph A. Weinman, which depicts Lady Liberty walking towards the sun, with the American flag draped around her shoulders. The reverse side of the coin features an eagle perched on a branch, with the inscriptions "United States of America" and "Half Dollar" above and below the eagle, respectively.
The Mint Mark Location
When the Walking Liberty Half Dollar was first introduced in 1916, the mint mark was located on the reverse side of the coin, just above the eagle. However, in 1917, the mint mark was moved to the obverse side of the coin, just below the "In God We Trust" inscription. This change was made in response to concerns that the mint mark on the reverse side was too small and difficult to read, especially on coins that had been heavily circulated.
From 1917 to 1947, the mint mark for the Walking Liberty Half Dollar appeared on the obverse side of the coin, just below the "In God We Trust" inscription. The mint mark for the Philadelphia Mint, which did not use a mint mark, was simply a small "P."
Identifying Mint Marks
If you are looking to identify the mint mark on a Walking Liberty Half Dollar, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you will need to examine the obverse side of the coin, just below the "In God We Trust" inscription. Second, you will need to look for a small letter or symbol that indicates the mint where the coin was produced.
If the coin was produced at the Philadelphia Mint, which did not use a mint mark, there will be a small "P" located just below the "In God We Trust" inscription. If the coin was produced at the Denver Mint, there will be a small "D" located just below the "In God We Trust" inscription. If the coin was produced at the San Francisco Mint, there will be a small "S" located just below the "In God We Trust" inscription.
Collecting Walking Liberty Half Dollars
Collecting Walking Liberty Half Dollars can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby for coin enthusiasts of all ages. These coins are highly sought-after by collectors and investors alike, and they can be found in a wide range of conditions and grades. Whether you are looking to build a complete set of Walking Liberty Half Dollars or simply want to add a few key dates to your collection, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs and budget.
When collecting Walking Liberty Half Dollars, it is important to keep in mind that the condition of the coin will have a significant impact on its value. Coins that are in excellent condition, with minimal wear and no damage or blemishes, will command a higher price than those that are heavily worn or damaged. It is also important to purchase coins from reputable dealers or sellers, and to have them graded by a professional grading service to ensure authenticity and accuracy.
Conclusion
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar is a beautiful and highly collectible coin that has captured the hearts and imaginations of collectors and investors for generations. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just getting started, there is plenty to appreciate and enjoy about these timeless coins. By understanding the history and mint mark location of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar, you can gain a deeper appreciation for these remarkable coins and the stories they have to tell.