You might have loose change lying around the house, but what if one of those old coins could be worth more than $19,000? It sounds too good to be true, but there is one rare half dollar that is doing just that. Minted during the final year of World War II, the 1945 Walking Liberty half dollar is more than just pocket change—it is a valuable piece of history that serious collectors are willing to pay big money for.
Why the 1945 walking liberty half dollar is so rare and valuable
If you are wondering what makes this particular coin special, it comes down to a few key things—its age, its condition, and the story behind it.
- Minted in 1945: This was the year World War II ended. Anything tied to this period holds historic weight.
- Rare in high condition: Millions were made, but very few survived in top-quality condition.
- Ultra Gem status: Some coins have been graded MS-68 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), which is nearly perfect.
Only two known examples of the 1945 Walking Liberty half dollar have achieved this MS-68 grade, and that is what sends their value through the roof.
How much is a 1945 half dollar worth today?
The real value depends on condition. If your 1945 half dollar is heavily worn from circulation, it might be worth just a few dollars. But if you happen to own one in excellent shape—especially with an MS-68 grade—it could be worth more than $19,000.
- Standard circulated coins: Usually worth around $10 to $50.
- High-grade MS-68 coins: Can fetch over $19,000.
- One sold for more: A coin from the Lulu Collection went for $66,000 at a 2021 auction.
That kind of money could help pay off debt, fund a big life purchase, or simply give you peace of mind. All from a coin you might have forgotten about.
How to check if your coin is worth thousands
Do not rush to sell your coin just yet. First, you need to check its condition and authenticity.
- Look at the year: It must say 1945.
- Examine the surface: Sharp details, shiny finish, and no major scratches are all good signs.
- Get it graded: The best way to know its true value is by sending it to PCGS or another trusted grading service.
Remember, grading matters. A slight difference in condition can mean thousands of dollars in value.
What is so special about the MS-68 grade?
Coins are graded on a 70-point scale, and MS-68 is very close to the top. MS stands for “Mint State,” which means the coin looks almost exactly like it did when it was first made.
- MS-68 coins: Nearly flawless with full shine and no visible damage.
- Very rare: Only two 1945 half dollars have received this grade.
- Collector’s dream: Coins this perfect are in high demand among serious collectors.
If your coin is graded MS-68, you are holding a real treasure.
Where can you sell a rare coin like this?
Once you confirm the value, you need to sell it through the right channel to get the best return.
- Coin auctions: Trusted auction houses like Heritage Auctions deal with high-end collectibles.
- Online coin marketplaces: Sites like GreatCollections and eBay can connect you with buyers.
- Coin dealers: Certified dealers may also give you a fair offer, but do your research first.
Avoid pawn shops or places that cannot recognize the true worth of your coin.
Why collectors love walking liberty coins
There is something timeless about the Walking Liberty design. It is not just about money—it is about history, art, and the story behind each coin.
- Designed by Adolph A. Weinman: A respected sculptor whose work is still celebrated today.
- Features Lady Liberty: A symbol of freedom and hope, especially meaningful during wartime.
- Tied to a historic moment: These coins were in circulation during the final months of WWII, making them emotionally valuable to many collectors.
If you have one of these coins, you are not just holding money—you are holding a piece of American history
