Where is the mint mark on walking liberty half dollars? This is a common question among coin collectors and enthusiasts who are interested in identifying the origin of their coins. The Walking Liberty half dollar, minted from 1916 to 1947, is one of the most iconic American coins, and its mint mark is a crucial detail for collectors to determine its authenticity and value.
The Walking Liberty half dollar was designed by Adolph A. Weinman, and it features Lady Liberty walking with a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left. The mint mark, which indicates the coin’s mint of origin, is located on the reverse side of the coin, near the eagle’s tail feathers. However, the exact position of the mint mark can vary slightly depending on the year and mint.
For coins minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which did not produce any Walking Liberty half dollars in 1916, the mint mark is absent. From 1917 to 1947, the mint mark is found below the eagle’s tail feathers. For coins minted at the Denver Mint, the mint mark is located above the eagle’s tail feathers, and for coins minted at the San Francisco Mint, the mint mark is found below the eagle’s tail feathers but to the left of the olive branch.
Identifying the mint mark on a Walking Liberty half dollar can be challenging, especially for coins that have been circulated extensively. The mint mark is typically a small letter or combination of letters, and it may be difficult to see without a magnifying glass. However, collectors can use the following tips to help identify the mint mark:
1. Hold the coin up to a bright light and look for the mint mark’s outline.
2. Use a magnifying glass to get a closer look at the mint mark.
3. Compare the mint mark with known examples of coins from the same mint and year.
Collectors should also be aware that some counterfeit Walking Liberty half dollars have been produced, and these may have fake or missing mint marks. It is important to purchase coins from reputable dealers and to have them authenticated by a professional coin grading service to ensure their authenticity.
In conclusion, the mint mark on a Walking Liberty half dollar is an essential detail for collectors to determine the coin’s origin and value. By knowing where to look and how to identify the mint mark, collectors can better appreciate the beauty and history of this iconic American coin.
