Walking Liberty Half Dollar Coin Pendant
Numismatic jewelry, pendant and chain • Original coin design by Adolph A. Weinman; jewelry assembly by unknown commercial jeweler
Style & Movement
Mid-century American Numismatics; Contemporary decorative jewelry
Medium & Technique
Silver coin with partial gold-tone plating or gilding, set in a gold-plated or gold-filled rope-twist bezel with a matching chain
Creation Period
Late 20th century to modern (based on the coin design minted 1916-1947, transformed into jewelry later)
Dimensions & Format
Circle format; Coin diameter approximately 30.6mm (plus bezel); chain length estimated 18-24 inches
Subject Description
The obverse of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar depicting Lady Liberty striding toward the sun, draped in the American flag. The coin has been stylized with a black oxidization/patina background and gold-highlighted figures.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Fair - The pendant shows significant surface wear, some verdigris/corrosion on the bail, and loss of plating on the chain
Estimated Market Value
$40.00 - $75.00 USD (primarily based on silver melt value and decorative appeal)
Auction Estimate
$30.00 - $60.00 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; typical of mass-produced heirloom or commercial jewelry sold in the United States
Art Historical Significance
The Walking Liberty design is considered one of the most beautiful American coin designs of the 20th century; however, as jewelry, its significance is decorative rather than fine-art focused.
Notable Features
Two-tone contrast (black and gold) applied to a standard silver coin; rope-twist bezel mounting
Condition Issues
Visible tarnishing on the chain, wear on the raised relief of the coin (Liberty's breast and knee), and oxidation in the crevices of the bezel
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with a soft polishing cloth; avoid harsh chemical dips which may remove the intentional decorative black patina