-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 56306
Checkout
The Certified Proof Walking Liberty Half Dollar 1942 PF64 NGC is a distinguished and highly collectible piece of American numismatics, embodying both artistic achievement and historical significance. Struck during the final years of proof coin production before World War II temporarily halted such issues, this coin stands as one of the last of its kind until proof coinage resumed in 1950. With a PF64 grade by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company), this example offers solid eye appeal, bold detail, and mirror-like surfaces, placing it in the upper tier of circulated proof coinage from this era.
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar series was first issued in 1916 and continued through 1947. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, it is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the United States Mint. The design captures the spirit of freedom and optimism, hallmarks of America’s identity during the first half of the 20th century. The 1942 proof issue is part of a relatively small group of coins produced between 1936 and 1942, when the Mint reintroduced proof coinage to satisfy collector demand. Due to the war, however, 1942 would be the final proof issue for this series until the post-war era.
The obverse of the coin features the iconic figure of Lady Liberty striding confidently toward the rising sun. Draped in the American flag and carrying laurel and oak branches, Liberty represents peace and strength. Her outstretched arm and flowing gown convey motion and grace, while the sun’s rays at the lower left hint at a new dawn. The word “LIBERTY” arcs across the top rim, with the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” to the right, and the date “1942” appearing near the bottom. The intricacy of the design, especially in proof format, allows for detailed study of Weinman’s neoclassical vision.
The reverse features a powerful eagle perched on a mountain crag, its wings partially spread as if about to take flight. A mountain pine sapling clings to the rock beside it, symbolizing resilience and the natural beauty of the American wilderness. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “HALF DOLLAR” encircle the composition. In proof strike, the reverse offers superb depth and clarity, with frosted design elements standing out in stark relief against deeply mirrored fields. This duality of surface texture—frost versus mirror—is especially pronounced on well-preserved specimens like this PF64 example.
All 1942 Proof Walking Liberty Half Dollars were struck at the Philadelphia Mint, as denoted by the absence of a mintmark. Only 21,120 proof examples were produced that year, a modest number by modern standards. The limited mintage contributes greatly to the coin’s desirability and ensures strong demand in the collector market. These coins were initially sold directly to collectors by the U.S. Mint, and many were well-preserved, though a significant portion has since been impaired by mishandling, cleaning, or environmental exposure.
The PF64 grade assigned by NGC indicates a coin with strong technical quality and visual appeal. At this grade level, the coin exhibits clean fields with only minor hairlines or contact marks visible under magnification. The devices—Liberty, the eagle, and other raised elements—are sharply struck and display excellent frost, offering appealing contrast with the mirrored fields. PF64 coins remain free from distracting flaws and are particularly attractive to collectors seeking a balance of quality and affordability within the scarce early proof coin market.
As with most pre-World War II proof coins, examples certified by third-party grading services like NGC are highly valued. The encapsulation provides long-term protection and verification of authenticity, while the label details the date, denomination, grade, and issuing mint. NGC is known for its rigorous grading standards and industry-wide respect, making its certification an important aspect of this coin’s overall market value and credibility.
Well-preserved PF64 specimens of the 1942 Proof Walking Liberty Half Dollar often display brilliant surfaces and sharp detail throughout Liberty’s gown, the sun’s rays, and the eagle’s feathers. Some coins may show light toning, which can enhance their appeal depending on the hues and distribution. Collectors often seek examples with original surfaces and minimal evidence of cleaning or mishandling, and this coin fits well within that desirable range.
The combination of a beloved design, limited mintage, high-grade preservation, and historical context makes the 1942 PF64 Proof Walking Liberty Half Dollar a key addition to any advanced U.S. coin collection. It represents the end of an era in American numismatics—proof production would cease entirely in 1943 due to the wartime redirection of resources. As such, the 1942 issue is not only a visual masterpiece but also a historical artifact, reflecting both the artistry and the challenges of its time.
In summary, the Certified 1942 PF64 Proof Walking Liberty Half Dollar by NGC is a beautiful and historically rich coin. It offers collectors an opportunity to own a piece of American history, produced during a time of great global upheaval and national unity. With its graceful design, limited mintage, and solid PF64 grade, it combines investment potential with timeless numismatic appeal, serving as a fitting tribute to one of the greatest coin designs in U.S. Mint history.