What is the value of a 1940 US half dollar?

Answer 1

All Walking Liberty half dollars were made of 90% silver, but 1940 is not 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 an 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 04/2011:

No mint mark (Philadelphia):

Very worn condition - $14

Moderately worn - $14

Slightly worn - $15

Almost no wear - $19

Uncirculated - $37 to $5,920 depending on quality

"S" mint mark (San Francisco):

Very worn - $14

Moderately worn - $14

Slightly worn - $15

Almost no wear - $23

Uncirculated - $47 to $6,860

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.