1946-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar 50C NGC MS65 CAC
The end of World War II in 1945 led to greatly reduced manufacturing, layoffs, and other signs of post-war recession. Mintages declined, reflecting this reduced activity, and the San Francisco Mint would not coin half dollars for circulation again until 1949. Hoarding of San Francisco Mint coins was well established by 1946, so examples in Mint State are quite common. Most, however, are rather poorly struck, and finding a sharp piece from fresh dies can be very challenging. Gems certified through MS-66 are readily available, while MS-67 examples are rare. Two different styles of mintmark were used for this issue, the Knob-Tail S and the Trumpet-Tail S, but there is little distinction in rarity. Two repunched-mintmark varieties are known, both having the Trumpet-Tail S. Doubled dies are known for both sides, but all are minor and of interest only to specialists.
1946 S Walking Liberty Half Dollar Value
According to the NGC Price Guide, as of June 2025, a Walking Liberty Half Dollar from 1946 in circulated condition is worth between $15.50 and $32.50. However, on the open market, 1946 S Half Dollars in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $11000.
