Walking Liberty half dollars minted between 1916 and 1947 are 90% silver and 10% copper. A half dollar from this period contains 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver. Those minted from 1948 to 1964 contain no silver, being composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, clad over a core of pure copper. From 1965 to 1970, they reverted to containing silver, but at a reduced purity of 40%, with the remaining 60% being copper. This equates to 0.1479 troy ounces of silver in these later coins. It’s crucial to differentiate these periods when assessing a coin’s value.
The silver content is a primary factor determining the value of these coins, especially for those minted before 1965. Beyond face value, the intrinsic metal value often significantly exceeds the numismatic value, particularly for well-preserved specimens. The different silver compositions across the minting years create distinct categories for collectors and investors, making accurate identification essential. This historical shift in metallic composition reflects broader economic changes and governmental policies regarding precious metals.
