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The 1942-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar with a filled die error is a rare and fascinating variation of one of the most iconic coins in U.S. history. This error coin was minted at the San Francisco Mint, which was responsible for producing a significant portion of U.S. coinage during the 20th century. The Walking Liberty Half Dollar, designed by Adolph A. Weinman, was first struck in 1916 and became one of the most beloved and enduring designs in American coinage. The 1942-S coin is part of the series that was minted during World War II, a period marked by economic turmoil and the need for a stable monetary system. The filled die error on this coin adds an element of intrigue, making it a highly sought-after piece for collectors of both U.S. coins and error coins.
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar was introduced in 1916 as a replacement for the Barber Half Dollar. The design features a full-length figure of Liberty walking confidently, holding branches of laurel and oak in her left hand, symbolizing peace and strength. The obverse of the coin was created by Weinman, who was commissioned by the U.S. Mint to design a new series of coins. The reverse of the coin, depicting a bald eagle perched on a rock and holding a branch of olives in its talons, was also designed by Weinman. This striking and powerful image has made the Walking Liberty Half Dollar one of the most beloved coin designs in American history. The coin’s elegant and flowing lines, along with its rich symbolism, continue to captivate collectors today.
The 1942-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar is part of the coin’s mid-20th-century run, which saw the coin produced during a time of significant change and global conflict. The San Francisco Mint was a central minting facility during this period, responsible for striking coins for circulation and special editions. The S mintmark on this coin indicates that it was struck at the San Francisco Mint, which played a critical role in meeting the demands for coinage during the war years. As with other years of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar series, the 1942-S coin is made from 90% silver and 10% copper, giving it a weight of 12.5 grams and a diameter of 30.6 millimeters. The 1942-S coin, along with other coins from this series, has become a favorite among collectors due to its historical significance and aesthetic appeal.
While filled die errors are not uncommon in the world of coin collecting, those that appear on coins as iconic as the Walking Liberty Half Dollar are especially prized. The rarity of the filled die error on the 1942-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar is heightened by the coin’s overall design, which is already highly sought after by collectors. As such, the filled die version of this coin is a coveted item, with collectors often willing to pay a premium for examples in good condition. The filled die error is not the only factor contributing to the coin’s desirability; the overall condition of the coin also plays a significant role in determining its value.
The 1942-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar with the filled die error is classified as an uncirculated coin, meaning it has not been in circulation and retains much of its original detail. Uncirculated coins are highly prized by collectors because they maintain their original luster and have minimal wear. The 1942-S coin in this description is in uncirculated condition with sharp details, and the filled die error makes it stand out even more. While some wear and imperfections may be visible, they do not detract significantly from the overall appeal of the coin. The fact that this coin has been carefully preserved in uncirculated condition adds to its desirability, particularly for collectors who specialize in high-grade coins and error pieces.
The minting of the 1942-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar occurred during a time when the U.S. Mint was producing large quantities of coins to meet the demand for currency during the wartime economy. This period saw the production of various coins, including the Walking Liberty Half Dollar, the Mercury Dime, and the Washington Quarter. While the mintage numbers for these coins were relatively high, many coins were subsequently melted down or lost to circulation, making high-quality examples of coins from this era relatively scarce. The filled die error on the 1942-S coin only adds to the rarity of the coin, making it even more valuable to collectors who seek to add unique pieces to their collections.
Given its filled die error and uncirculated condition, the 1942-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar with this particular flaw is a highly desirable coin for collectors. It represents an interesting and unique variation within the larger Walking Liberty Half Dollar series, and it holds historical significance due to its connection to the wartime era. The coin’s design, which is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful of any U.S. coin, further adds to its appeal. The filled die error, while making the coin less perfect than other examples, only adds to its charm and rarity, making it an excellent addition to any collection.
In conclusion, the 1942-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar with a filled die error is an exceptional piece of American numismatic history. Its status as a classic coin from the highly regarded Walking Liberty series, combined with the rarity of the filled die error, makes it a highly sought-after item. Collectors appreciate this coin not only for its design and connection to the wartime period but also for its status as an error coin. The uncirculated condition of the coin ensures that it retains much of its original beauty, and the filled die error makes it a standout piece in any collection. Whether you are a long-time collector of U.S. coins or new to the hobby, the 1942-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar with a filled die error is a fascinating and valuable addition to any numismatic collection.