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The Certified 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar graded F12 by ANACS is a scarce and highly sought-after key date in one of America’s most admired coin series. Struck at the Denver Mint during a period of historically low coin production, the 1921-D is one of the rarest regular-issue Walking Liberty halves, with low mintage, limited survivability, and high collector demand in all grades. In Fine 12 condition, this example offers moderate circulation wear but retains clear, essential design features on both the obverse and reverse. ANACS certification ensures the coin is authentic and problem-free, offering collectors a trustworthy and appealing mid-grade representation of this classic rarity.
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar, designed by Adolph A. Weinman and introduced in 1916, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful designs in U.S. coinage history. The obverse features Lady Liberty striding confidently toward the dawn, draped in the American flag and holding laurel and oak branches in her left arm, symbolizing both civil and military glory. Her right hand reaches outward as if ushering in a hopeful future. The sun rises at her feet with rays extending behind her. The reverse features a boldly perched eagle with wings partially spread, standing on a rock with a pine sapling growing from a crevice—an image symbolizing strength and rebirth.
The obverse of this 1921-D example in F12 condition retains a clearly outlined Liberty figure. While the finer elements of Liberty’s gown and the flag’s folds are worn, all major features remain visible, including her outstretched arm, flowing drapery, and the radiating sun. The date “1921” is fully legible at the lower right, and the word “LIBERTY” arcs along the upper edge, complete and strong. The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is distinct to the right of Liberty’s figure. The coin’s surface displays smooth, even wear characteristic of a solid Fine grade, with no distractions from damage, corrosion, or cleaning, as confirmed by ANACS certification.
The reverse of the coin shows the eagle perched with wings slightly spread, its head turned left. In F12, moderate wear has softened the feather details and surface texture, especially on the eagle’s breast and upper wings, but the shape of the bird and rock remains strong. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” are clear and fully legible, as is the denomination “HALF DOLLAR” at the bottom. The “D” mintmark, indicating production at the Denver Mint, is located on the left, just below the branch on which the eagle stands. It is clearly defined in this example, confirming its status as one of the key mintmark issues of the entire series.
The 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar had a mintage of only 208,000 pieces, the lowest of any half dollar struck that year and the second-lowest of the entire series after the 1921 (Philadelphia) issue. This low production was the result of decreased economic activity in the wake of the 1920–1921 postwar recession. Most coins were heavily circulated and used in commerce across the western United States, making problem-free survivors rare in all grades and particularly elusive in Mint State. Even circulated examples like this F12 piece command strong premiums due to the date’s key status and perennial demand among series collectors.
In the context of the Walking Liberty series, the 1921-D stands as one of the essential keys. Alongside the 1916-S and 1921 Philadelphia and San Francisco issues, it anchors the set’s most difficult coins to obtain. The Denver Mint had only begun striking coins in 1906 and was still issuing modest quantities of silver coinage well into the 1920s. As a result, coins like the 1921-D were not struck in large quantities and were not widely saved at the time, especially in high grade. Collectors often choose Fine or Very Fine examples to fill this slot in a complete date-and-mintmark collection, as they offer the best balance of cost and detail.
Graded F12 by ANACS, this coin meets the established standards for a solidly circulated but clearly detailed example. The grade confirms full rims, legible lettering, and recognizable design elements, even if much of the finer detail is lost to circulation. ANACS, as the oldest third-party grading service in the United States, maintains a strong reputation for consistent grading and authentication. Their certification gives collectors confidence in the coin’s legitimacy, grade accuracy, and marketability. The coin is securely encapsulated in a protective holder that ensures its preservation and resale readiness.
The surfaces of this coin likely exhibit natural silver-gray patina typical of mid-grade circulated coins, with no signs of harsh cleaning or artificial toning. While friction from circulation has softened the coin’s relief, it has not impaired its visual appeal or readability. For collectors assembling a full Walking Liberty set, especially one focused on circulated grades, this example represents an important milestone. It allows collectors to obtain one of the series’ rarest issues without the high cost associated with Extremely Fine or Mint State examples, which can sell for thousands of dollars.
The Certified 1921-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar graded F12 by ANACS is an important piece of American numismatic history. It represents the artistry of Weinman’s celebrated design, the regional rarity of Denver Mint coinage, and the economic backdrop of early 1920s America. As one of the most sought-after keys in the Walking Liberty series, it carries lasting value and strong collector interest in virtually all grades. With its solid Fine detail, certified authenticity, and historical importance, this coin makes an ideal acquisition for anyone building a serious collection of classic American silver coins.