Although a few satin proofs have been rumored to exist for 1916 and 1917, the first true Proof Walking Liberty Half Dollars struck for collectors in 1936. This began a brief era of proof coin production, which continued until 1942. Proof coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and sold to collectors individually by denomination or as part of a complete annual proof set.
The proof Walking Liberty Halves struck from 1936 to 1942 had mintages ranging from a low of 3,901 for the first year to a high of 21,120 for the final year. Hairlines are a persistent problem for these early proof coins, often clearly visible because of the reflective fields. Striking characteristics are generally strong, with only minor weakness noted in select areas on some coins. Cameo and Deep Cameo pieces are in the distinct minority, and are much in demand.
| 1936 | 3,901 |
| 1937 | 5,728 |
| 1938 | 8,152 |
| 1939 | 8,808 |
| 1940 | 11,279 |
| 1941 | 15,412 |
| 1942 | 21,120 |
