1942 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Values, Errors, and Rarities

The Walking Liberty half dollar is often called one of the most beautiful coins in the United States. Many collectors love this coin, and it became very famous over the years. In 1986, the design was even used for the first American silver bullion coin, the American Silver Eagle. This article will talk about the 1942 Walking Liberty half dollar, its value, any errors, and its rare versions.

Overview of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar

The Walking Liberty half dollar was made from 1916 to 1947. The design was created by a sculptor named Adolph A. Weinman. The front shows Lady Liberty walking, while the back has an eagle. This coin is popular among collectors for its beauty and history.

Mintage and Rarity

Walking Liberty half dollars from 1916 to 1933 are quite rare, especially the 1919 and 1921 mintages. However, coins made in the 1940s, including the 1942, are more common. This is because many were minted to help support the economy during World War II.

1942 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Prices

The value of the 1942 Walking Liberty half dollar can vary based on its condition. Here are the prices based on the grade:

1942-P Walking Liberty Half Dollar Value

The 1942-P version was made in Philadelphia and has a mintage of 47,818,000 coins. Here are its prices:

Grade	Price
MS-60	$55
MS-61	$62
MS-62	$75
MS-63	$85
MS-64	$115
MS-65	$165
MS-66	$265
MS-67	$725
MS-68	$22,500

1942-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar Value

The 1942-D version, made in Denver, had a mintage of 10,973,800. Its prices are as follows:

Grade	Price
MS-60	$55
MS-61	$62
MS-62	$75
MS-63	$100
MS-64	$140
MS-65	$200
MS-66	$300
MS-67	$1,000
MS-68	$45,000

1942-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar Value

The 1942-S was made in San Francisco and has a mintage of 12,708,000. Its prices are:

Grade	Price
MS-60	$55
MS-61	$65
MS-62	$75
MS-63	$100
MS-64	$155
MS-65	$350
MS-66	$825
MS-67	$47,500

1942 Walking Liberty Proof Half Dollar Value

The 1942 proof version was the last proof half dollar until the 1950 proof Franklin half. It has a total mintage of 21,120 coins. Here are its prices:

Grade	Price
PR-60	$325
PR-61	$350
PR-62	$365
PR-63	$400
PR-64	$500
PR-65	$600
PR-66	$700
PR-67	$1,050
PR-68	$6,750
PR-69	$60,000

The Most Valuable 1942 Walking Liberty Halves

The auction records show the highest prices paid for these coins. Here’s a list of the most valuable examples:

1942-P Walking Liberty Half Dollar

• Auction Record: $78,000 for MS-68+ (2021, Stack’s Bowers)
• Finest Known: MS-68+ (1, PCGS); MS-68 (13, NGC)

1942-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar

• Auction Record: $72,000 for MS-68 (2021, Stack’s Bowers)
• Finest Known: MS-68 (10, PCGS); MS-68 (9, NGC)

1942-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar

• Auction Record: $70,500 for MS-67 (2023, Legend Rare Coin Auctions)
• Finest Known: MS-67+ (3, PCGS); MS-67 (29, NGC)

1942 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Proof

• Auction Record: $60,000 for PR-68 (2021, Heritage)
• Finest Known: PR-69 (1, PCGS); PF-69 (8, NGC)

Varieties and Errors

Varieties are coins that have small differences due to errors made during minting. Common types include:

• Doubled Die on Reverse (DDR)
• Doubled Die on Obverse (DDO)
• Repunched Mint Mark (RPM)

The 1942 Walking Liberty half dollar has several minor varieties and one major error:

Major Error

• 1942 Doubled Die Reverse (DDR)

Grade	Price
MS-60	$225
MS-61	$250
MS-62	$275
MS-63	$325
MS-64	$400
MS-65	$600
MS-66	$2,500
MS-67	$6,500

Conclusion

The 1942 Walking Liberty half dollar is not just a beautiful coin; it holds significant historical and monetary value. Its design has captured the hearts of collectors for decades, and its various mintages offer something for everyone, from beginners to experienced numismatists. Understanding the values, rarities, and errors associated with this coin can help collectors make informed decisions. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply learn more about the Walking Liberty half dollar, there is plenty of fascinating history behind these coins that make them worth exploring.

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