Price Guide for 1945 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: $15.00 – $3,450.00Uncirculated: $10.00 – $66,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $3.00 – $165.00Uncirculated: $10.50 – $3,100.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $17.00 – $50.00Uncirculated: $55.00 – $67,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $17.00 – $1,495.00Uncirculated: $16.00 – $60,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $8.50 – $72.00Uncirculated: $16.00 – $5,108.90
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $17.00 – $50.00Uncirculated: $55.00 – $60,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $14.27 – $2,500.00Uncirculated: $17.00 – $40,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $11.50 – $82.00Uncirculated: $10.00 – $4,750.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $17.00 – $50.00Uncirculated: $55.00 – $45,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $124.00 – $168.00Uncirculated: $132.00 – $6,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $20.51 – $128.05Uncirculated: $200.00 – $789.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 – $275.00Uncirculated: $300.00 – $4,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1945 Half Dollar
The 1945 Half Dollar, also known as the Walking Liberty Half Dollar, was minted during the final year of World War II. This iconic design, created by Adolph A. Weinman in 1916, symbolizes America’s stride towards a brighter future. The year 1945 marks a significant period in American history, as it represents the end of the war and the beginning of a new era of peace and prosperity.
| Weight | 12.50 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 30.61 mm |
| Mint Marks | D, S (No mint mark for Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Walking Liberty, designed by Adolph A. Weinman |
| Reverse Design | Eagle with wings spread, designed by Adolph A. Weinman |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of 1945 Half Dollars. While circulated examples are relatively common, uncirculated specimens in high grades (MS65 and above) are scarce and highly sought after. The coin’s large size and exposed fields make it susceptible to contact marks and wear, making high-grade examples particularly valuable.
Key factors affecting condition include:
– Luster: Original mint luster adds significant value
– Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details command premiums
– Surface preservation: Minimal contact marks or scratches increase desirability
– Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance value for some collectors
Mintage: 31,502,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, due to historical significance and silver content
Mintage: 9,966,800
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Rare in MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, slightly higher than Philadelphia due to lower mintage
Mintage: 10,156,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Rare in MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, similar to Denver mint
Several factors can influence the value of 1945 Half Dollars beyond condition:
1. Historical significance: As coins minted in the final year of World War II, they hold special appeal for collectors and history enthusiasts.
2. Silver content: With 90% silver composition, these coins have intrinsic value beyond their numismatic worth.
3. Design appreciation: The Walking Liberty design is widely considered one of the most beautiful in U.S. coinage, increasing collector demand.
4. Mint mark: While not rare, Denver and San Francisco issues typically command slightly higher premiums due to lower mintages.
5. Toning quality: Coins with exceptional, natural toning can see significant value increases among specialized collectors.
