1916-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar. MS-64 (NGC). CAC. OH. Razor sharp striking detail, abundant mint luster and pretty iridescent toning combine to create an exceptionally desirable 1916-S half dollar. This marks the first year of issue for the type at San Francisco and by all measures, the scarcest branch mint of the date. Adolph A. Weinmans Walking Liberty half dollar is highly regarded today but evoked mixed reactions when it made its debut. "At last we have on our coins the great American eagle in a natural, lifelike form," <em>The Numismatist</em> said. "As represented on the half dollar he is, as the small boy would say, some bird, and his size and proportions are in keeping with the greatness and power of the country." However, ornithologist Frank M. Chapman chided, "The artist has made this bird a terrestrial fowl, striding or marching on the ground like a turkey-cock, and with as much dignity as one." Another critic said, "The eagle looks as though it were wearing overalls and marching through hot tar." So much for opinions from the old days; your cataloger (JLA) thinks the Walking Liberty half dollar is one of Americas best designed coins -- ever! From the Larry H. Miller Collection. From the Larry H. Miller Collection.
