How much silver is in a half dollar Walking Liberty coin? This question is often asked by collectors and enthusiasts who are interested in the composition of this iconic American coin. The Walking Liberty half dollar, minted from 1916 to 1947, is known for its beautiful design and high silver content, making it a valuable piece for numismatists.
The Walking Liberty half dollar contains a significant amount of silver, as it was made from 90% silver and 10% copper. This composition was typical for most U.S. coins during the early 20th century. The silver content of the coin can be calculated by considering its weight and the purity of the silver.
The Walking Liberty half dollar weighs approximately 12.5 grams. To determine the amount of silver in the coin, we need to multiply the weight by the purity of the silver. The silver purity for these coins is 0.900, meaning that 90% of the coin’s weight is silver.
Calculating the silver content, we get:
12.5 grams (coin weight) x 0.900 (silver purity) = 11.25 grams of silver
So, a half dollar Walking Liberty coin contains approximately 11.25 grams of silver. This high silver content contributes to the coin’s value, especially when it is in good condition and has a high grade.
Collectors often look for the Walking Liberty half dollar in circulated or uncirculated condition, with the uncirculated coins being more valuable due to their better condition. The coin’s value can also be influenced by factors such as mint marks, rarity, and the presence of mint errors or varieties.
In conclusion, the Walking Liberty half dollar is a classic American coin with a substantial amount of silver. Understanding the silver content can help collectors and enthusiasts appreciate the coin’s value and historical significance.
