The Walking Liberty Half Dollar was introduced in 1916 as part of the Roosevelt administration’s efforts to elevate the artistic standards of American coinage. It replaced the Barber Half Dollar after that design fulfilled its 25-year production requirement. Designed by sculptor Adolph A. Weinman, the Walking Liberty Half Dollar quickly became a widely recognized example of early 20th-century coin artistry. This 1940 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is an early US Mint proof strike with refined artistry and balanced die strikes.
The 1940 Proof Walking Liberty Half Dollar was struck in limited quantities of just 11,279 pieces for collectors, featuring mirror-like fields and frosted devices that showcase Weinman’s design in spectacular detail. These early proof coins were sold individually or as part of complete proof sets and represent the final year of pre-war proof production before the program was suspended.
This 1940 Walking Liberty Half Dollar features a PR66 certification with consistent, mirror-like luster on both sides and finely rendered relief details. The typical PR66 coin has no more than three or four minor contact marks, with a few possible in the prime focal areas. A few light hairlines or scuffs may be visible on the coin, but not without the aid of magnification.
The obverse of the 1940 Walking Liberty Half Dollar shows Liberty striding toward the dawn, draped in the American flag. Her right arm reaches forward, while laurel and oak branches rest in her left arm to symbolize peace and strength. The inscription “LIBERTY” is placed to the right, with “IN GOD WE TRUST” appearing beneath Liberty’s arm. The date is displayed at the bottom of the coin.
The reverse of the 1940 Walking Liberty Half Dollar features an American eagle perched on a rocky mountain outcrop with wings partially open. A pine sapling grows from the stone below. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DOLLAR” surround the design, while “E PLURIBUS UNUM” appears in small lettering near the pine branch.
