The 1938 Walking Liberty half dollars have value as both numismatic coins and as silver bullion. Keep reading to learn more about these silver coins.

1938 Half Dollar

Specifications

Type: Walking Liberty Half Dollar
Year: 1938
Face Value: $0.50
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Silver Weight: .36169 oz.
Total Weight: 12.5 grams
Current Silver Bullion Value: $11.41

The US minted the 1938 half dollar with no mint mark and also the 1938 D half dollar. The mint mark, when present, can be found on the reverse side of the coin on the lower left side.

Series Location Quantity Minted
1938 Philadelphia 4,110,000
1938 D Denver 491,600

Value

This coin in circulated condition is worth at least its weight in silver. The silver melt value for this coin is $11.41. This melt value is calculated from the current silver spot price of $31.56 per ounce.

The 1938 half dollar with no mint mark is worth around $14 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $15.50. In extremely fine condition the value is around $25. In uncirculated condition the price is around $85 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $200.

The 1938 D half dollar is more rare and more valuable. This coin is worth around $55 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $105. In extremely fine condition the value is around $200. In uncirculated condition the price is around $700 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $950.

Proof coins with no mint mark are available and they are each valued at around $800 in PR 65 condition. There were only 8,152 proof coins minted.

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Grading System

Good- The rims of the coin are defined. The motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is readable.

Very fine- The lines on Lady Liberty's skirt look sharp. There is a small amount of wear on Lady Liberty's right arm and breast.

Extremely fine- Almost all of Lady Liberty's gown lines are visible.

MS 60 uncirculated- There are no signs of wear. The coin has luster, but there may be a few stains, abrasions, or surface marks.

MS 63 choice uncirculated- In the major focal areas there are some blemishes or contact marks. The coin's luster might not be as prominent.

PR 65 proof- There are no flaws to this coin. A few blemishes may be present.

 

Sources:

The Red Book


See also:

1939 Half Dollar
1937 Half Dollar
1936 Half Dollar