Numismatic

1916 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Fair

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The year 1916 marked the debut of one of the most celebrated designs in United States coinage. This half dollar, struck in 90% silver, features the inaugural Walking Liberty design by Adolph Weinman. With a total mintage of 608,000 pieces from the Philadelphia Mint, this first year issue represents a significant moment in American numismatic artistry. The obverse of the coin displays a powerful depiction of Lady Liberty moving gracefully toward a rising sun, cradling a bundle of branches in her arm. The legendary motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed on this side. On the reverse, a majestic eagle is shown perched upon a rocky crag, wings partially spread as if preparing to launch into the sky. The reverse inscriptions include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA", "HALF DOLLAR", and the traditional phrase "E PLURIBUS UNUM". Containing 0.3575 troy ounces of pure silver, this coin survives in Fair condition. The wear on its surfaces tells a story of extensive circulation, yet the enduring outlines of Weinman's masterpiece remain recognizable, offering a tangible connection to the early twentieth century.