Discover the shocking 1917 Walking Liberty half dollar value in 2025! From $50 pocket change to $175,000 record-breakers – see exact prices by mint mark, grade, and rarity inside this complete guide.
What Is the 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar?
The Walking Liberty half dollar is hands-down one of the most beautiful coins America ever made. Debuting in 1916 and minted through 1947, the 1917 version was only the second year of issue – making it instantly collectible.
A Quick History of This Iconic Design
Designed by famed sculptor Adolph A. Weinman, Lady Liberty strides toward the sunrise on the obverse while a bold eagle perches on the reverse. In 1917, these coins were struck at three mints: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S).
Why Are 1917 Half Dollars So Valuable Today?
Low mintages, heavy circulation wear, and skyrocketing demand from collectors have turned many 1917 halves into six-figure treasures – especially the ultra-rare 1917-S obverse mint mark variety.
1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar Value Chart (2025 Updated)
| Mint | Good (G-4) | Very Fine (VF-20) | MS63 | MS65 | MS67+ (Top Pop) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1917 No MM | $45 | $90 | $450 | $1,750 | $25,000+ |
| 1917-D | $50 | $150 | $1,200 | $6,500 | $65,000+ |
| 1917-S | $60 | $300 | $3,500 | $25,000 | $175,000+ |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties You Need to Know
| Variety | Why It’s Rare | Recent Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1917-S Obverse Mint Mark | Mint mark on front (only ~200,000) | $174,000 (2024) |
| 1917-D Obverse Mint Mark | Extremely low survival in high grade | $90,000+ |
| Full Strike + Split Thumb | Strong details collectors love | 3–5× normal price |
Record Auction Prices That Will Blow Your Mind
- January 2024: 1917-S Obverse MS67+ CAC → $174,000
- 2023: 1917 (Philly) MS68 → $108,000
- 2021: 1917-D Obverse MS66+ → $192,000 (previous record)
Expert Tips: How to Spot a Valuable 1917 Half Dollar
- Grab a 10x loupe and check the mint mark location first!
- Look for original “skin” and rainbow toning – collectors pay huge premiums.
- Avoid cleaned or scratched coins; even tiny hairlines kill value.
- Get anything MS65 or better graded by PCGS or NGC – it can 10× your money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all 1917 Walking Liberty half dollars valuable?
A: Circulated ones are still worth $40–$100 in silver melt + premium, but gem uncirculated examples are where the real money hides.
Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1917 half dollar?
A: Two locations! Most 1917-S and some 1917-D have it on the OBVERSE (left of “In God We Trust”). Later ones moved it to the reverse.
Q: Should I clean my 1917 half dollar?
A: NEVER. Cleaning can drop a $50,000 coin to $500 overnight.
Final Thoughts – Could You Be Holding $175,000?
The 1917 Walking Liberty half dollar proves that pocket change from 100+ years ago can become life-changing money today. Dig through those old jars, inherited collections, or estate sale boxes – your next discovery might just pay for a house!
Found a 1917 half? Drop a comment below with the mint mark and condition – I’ll help you estimate its value for free. Happy hunting!