Price Guide for 1923 Half Dollar Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $20.00 – $4,400.00Uncirculated: $10.50 – $48,875.00
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eBayCirculated: $13.40 – $2,495.00Uncirculated: $2,100.00 – $4,959.95
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $20.00 – $4,500.00Uncirculated: $5,000.00 – $90,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1923 Half Dollar
The 1923 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is part of the iconic series designed by Adolph A. Weinman, which ran from 1916 to 1947. This coin was minted during the Roaring Twenties, a period of economic prosperity in the United States. The Walking Liberty design is considered one of the most beautiful in American coinage history, symbolizing the nation’s forward-looking spirit and liberty.
| Weight | 12.5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 30.6 mm |
| Mint Marks | S |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Walking Liberty, designed by Adolph A. Weinman |
| Reverse Design | Eagle perched on rock with wings spread, designed by Adolph A. Weinman |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of a 1923-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar significantly impacts its value. Due to its lower mintage and age, high-grade examples are particularly scarce and valuable. Coins in Mint State (MS) grades, especially MS65 and above, command substantial premiums.
Key factors affecting condition include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details on Liberty’s hand and the eagle’s feathers are highly desirable.
2. Luster: Original mint luster adds significant value.
3. Surface preservation: Minimal contact marks or abrasions increase desirability.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance value for some collectors.
Mintage: 2,178,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, due to its status as a semi-key date and overall series popularity
Several factors contribute to the 1923-S Half Dollar’s value:
1. Rarity: As a semi-key date with lower mintage, it’s sought after by collectors.
2. Historical significance: Represents the Roaring Twenties era.
3. Design popularity: The Walking Liberty design is highly regarded among numismatists.
4. Silver content: The coin’s 90% silver composition adds intrinsic value.
5. Preservation: Well-preserved examples are scarce, increasing demand for high-grade specimens.
The 1923-S is particularly valuable in high grades due to the combination of its lower mintage and the general scarcity of well-preserved examples from this era.
