The 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar is one of the most coveted coins in the Walking Liberty series, which ran from 1916 to 1947. Struck at the Denver Mint, this coin holds a special place in numismatic history due to its low mintage, beautiful design, and historical context. Collectors highly prize the 1921-D for its rarity and significance as one of the key dates in the series.
The Walking Liberty Design
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar, designed by sculptor Adolph A. Weinman, is considered one of the most beautiful coins ever minted in the United States. The obverse features Lady Liberty striding confidently toward the sunrise, draped in the American flag, with her right arm extended and an olive branch in her left hand. This imagery symbolizes hope, peace, and progress. The word “LIBERTY” arches above her, while the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the date “1921” appear below.
Mintage and Rarity
The 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar was minted during a period of economic uncertainty and reduced coin production. The Denver Mint struck only 208,000 of these coins, making it one of the lowest-mintage coins in the entire Walking Liberty series. Many of these coins saw heavy circulation, and as a result, finding examples in high grades is exceptionally difficult.
Value of the 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The value of the 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar varies greatly depending on its condition. Here’s a general guideline for its market value:
- Good (G-4): $200–$400
- Very Fine (VF-20): $1,500–$3,000
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $7,000–$10,000
- Mint State (MS-60+): $25,000 or more
Historical Context
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar series itself reflects the optimism and resilience of the era, embodying themes of liberty and national pride. Despite its beauty, the series faced challenges in production, with frequent complaints about the difficulty of striking the design sharply. The 1921-D is a prime example, as many coins from this year exhibit weak strikes, adding to the challenge of finding well-defined specimens.
Collecting the 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar
For collectors, the 1921-D is a cornerstone of the Walking Liberty series. Its scarcity in all grades makes it a must-have for anyone assembling a complete set. Because of its rarity, it is often targeted by counterfeiters, so authentication by a reputable grading service such as PCGS or NGC is essential.
Conclusion
The 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar is a gem of American numismatics, cherished for its stunning design, historical significance, and extreme rarity. Its low mintage and heavy circulation make it one of the most challenging coins to find in top condition, adding to its allure among collectors. Whether as part of a complete Walking Liberty collection or a standalone investment, the 1921-D is a tangible link to America’s past and a testament to the enduring beauty of its coinage.
FAQs
1. Why is the 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar so rare?
The 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar is rare due to its low mintage of just 208,000 coins. Many of these coins saw heavy circulation, and few survived in high grades, making it a key date for collectors.
2. What is the value of a 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
The value of a 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar can range from $200 in lower grades to over $25,000 for Mint State examples. Its rarity and condition significantly impact its market value.
3. How can I tell if my 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar is authentic?
To ensure authenticity, have the coin graded by reputable services like PCGS or NGC. This provides verification and an accurate assessment of the coin’s condition and value.