What is the value of a 1942 us half dollar?

Answer 1

UpdatedAll Walking Liberty half dollars were made of 90% silver, but 1942 isn't a rare year. In lower grades the coin's value is mostly determined by the value of the silver it contains.

Look on the back of the coin to see if there's a small mint mark letter at roughly the 8:00 position. It may be blank or there may be a D or S. (The W on the front of the coin is the designer's monogram and not a mint mark.)

Numismedia lists the following approximate retail values as of 03/2011:

No mint mark (Philadelphia):

Very worn condition - $14

Moderately worn - $14

Slightly worn - $14

Almost no wear - $19

Uncirculated - $32 to $5,920 depending on quality

"D" mint mark (Denver):

Very worn - $14

Moderately worn - $14

Slightly worn - $14

Almost no wear - $21

Uncirculated - $36 to $6,920

"S" mint mark (San Francisco):

Very worn - $14

Moderately worn - $14

Slightly worn - $14

Almost no wear - $22

Uncirculated - $37 to $20,150

DISCLAIMER: The retail values quoted are the best available as of the date shown, but may vary significantly due to changes in the precious metals market. Also the wholesale (buying) price of a coin will be less than the selling (retail) price. A reputable coin dealer will be able to give a more accurate valuation based on inspection of the coin.

1942 is not a rare date for Walking Liberty Halves. In circulated condition, it currently has about $4 worth of silver in it. A nice uncirculated one is worth about $30

All Walking Liberty (Not E PLURIBUS UNUM) half dollars from 1940 to 1947 regardless of mintmarks in average circulated condition have the same retail values of $14.00-$15.00.

NOTE: The values will go up and down along with the price of silver.