The 1973 Kennedy half dollar may not be the most sought-after coin in the numismatic world, but it holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and history enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive guide will delve into the fascinating world of the 1973 half dollar, exploring its history, varieties, and most importantly, its value in today's market.
A Journey Through Time: The Kennedy Half Dollar's History
The Kennedy half dollar first graced American pockets in 1964, less than a year after President John F. Kennedy's tragic assassination. It was a poignant tribute to the beloved president and quickly became a coveted collector's item. By 1973, the coin had undergone significant changes:
- 1964: Initial release with 90% silver content
- 1965-1970: Composition changed to 40% silver
- 1971 onwards: Silver eliminated, replaced by copper-nickel clad composition
These changes reflected the evolving economic landscape and the rising price of silver. Despite these alterations, the Kennedy half dollar remained a popular coin among collectors and the general public alike.
The 1973 Half Dollar: Essential Facts for Collectors
Before we dive into the specifics of value, let's review some crucial information about the 1973 half dollar:
- Composition: 91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel (outer layer over pure copper core)
- Weight: 11.34 grams
- Diameter: 30.6 mm
- Edge: Reeded (150 reeds)
- Designer: Obverse by Gilroy Roberts, Reverse by Frank Gasparro
- Obverse Design: Profile of President John F. Kennedy
- Reverse Design: Modified Presidential Seal
Mint Varieties and Mintage Numbers
The 1973 half dollar was produced at three different U.S. Mint facilities:
- Philadelphia (No Mint Mark): 64,964,000
- Denver (D): 83,171,400
- San Francisco (S): 2,760,339 (Proof coins only)
These mintage numbers provide insight into the relative scarcity of each variety. While the Denver mint produced the highest number of coins, the San Francisco mint's proof coins are the rarest, with only a fraction of the mintage compared to their circulated counterparts.
Grading the 1973 Half Dollar: The Key to Value
The value of a 1973 half dollar largely depends on its condition. Numismatists use the Sheldon Scale, which ranges from 1 to 70, to grade coins. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- MS 60-62: Uncirculated, but with noticeable imperfections
- MS 63-64: Choice Uncirculated, with minor flaws
- MS 65-66: Gem Uncirculated, with very few imperfections
- MS 67+: Superb Gem Uncirculated, nearly flawless
For proof coins, the grades are similar but prefixed with "PR" instead of "MS."
1973 Half Dollar Value Guide: A Comprehensive Analysis
Now, let's explore the value of each variety in detail:
1973 No Mint Mark (Philadelphia)
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $0.50 – $1 |
| MS 60-62 | $5 – $7 |
| MS 63-64 | $9 – $10 |
| MS 65-66 | $28 – $70 |
| MS 67 | ~$400 |
Notable sale: An MS 67 specimen sold for $1,400 in a 2022 Heritage Auctions sale, showcasing the potential value of high-grade examples.
1973-D (Denver)
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $0.50 – $1 |
| MS 60-62 | $5 – $7 |
| MS 63-64 | $9 – $10 |
| MS 65-66 | $28 – $36 |
| MS 67 | ~$250 |
Notable sale: An MS 62 specimen surprisingly sold for $1,704 in a 2013 Heritage Auctions sale, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of numismatic markets.
1973-S (San Francisco – Proof)
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| PR 60-62 | $4 – $5 |
| PR 63-64 | $5 – $6 |
| PR 65-66 | $6 – $8 |
| PR 67-69 | $10 – $20 |
| PR 70 | ~$1,250 |
Notable sales:
- A PR 70 DCAM (Deep Cameo) sold for $4,888 in a 2006 Heritage Auctions sale
- A PR 65 sold for an unexpected $4,370 in a 2003 Bowers and Merena auction
Valuable Errors: The Hidden Treasures of 1973 Half Dollars
Errors can significantly increase a coin's value. Here are some to watch for in 1973 half dollars:
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Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): Look for doubling in the date or motto. Can be worth hundreds of dollars.
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Five-Strike Error: Extremely rare, creating an illusion of infinite reflection. One sold for $4,320 in a 2020 Heritage Auctions sale.
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Double-Struck Off-Center: Results in a partial blank area. Can be highly valuable, with prices ranging from $100 to over $1,000 depending on the severity.
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Cud Error: Appears as a raised blob on the coin's surface. Can fetch up to $200 for significant examples.
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Obverse Die Break: Creates a raised line or lump on the obverse. Proof versions can be worth over $1,500.
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Broad Struck Error: Coin struck outside the collar, resulting in a larger diameter. Can exceed $1,000 for well-preserved specimens.
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No FG Error: Missing designer's initials on the reverse. Rare and collectible, with values ranging from $50 to $500 depending on condition.
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Wrong Planchet Errors: A 1973-S half struck on a quarter planchet sold for $1,920 in a 2019 Heritage Auctions sale.
Factors Affecting Value: Understanding the Market
Several factors can influence the value of a 1973 half dollar:
- Condition: Generally, the better the condition, the higher the value. An MS 67 coin can be worth 100 times more than a circulated example.
- Mint Mark: Proof coins from San Francisco tend to be more valuable due to their lower mintage and superior striking quality.
- Errors: Significant errors can dramatically increase value, sometimes by thousands of dollars.
- Demand: Collector interest can drive up prices for certain varieties or grades.
- Preservation: Proper storage and handling can maintain a coin's condition and value over time.
- Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance a coin's appeal and value to collectors.
Expert Tips for Collectors: Maximizing Your Investment
As a seasoned U.S. coin collecting expert, I recommend the following strategies for those interested in 1973 half dollars:
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Focus on Quality: For common dates like 1973, condition is key. Invest in the highest grade you can afford.
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Look for Errors: They can be hidden treasures in an otherwise common coin. Use a magnifying glass to examine details closely.
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Consider Proof Coins: They often offer the best quality and potential for appreciation. Look for deep cameo examples with strong contrast.
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Authenticate Valuable Specimens: For high-grade or error coins, professional grading from NGC or PCGS is recommended.
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Store Properly: Use non-PVC holders and store coins in a cool, dry place to preserve their condition.
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Study the Market: Keep abreast of auction results and price guides to understand current trends.
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Join Numismatic Organizations: Groups like the American Numismatic Association offer valuable resources and networking opportunities.
The Future of 1973 Half Dollar Collecting
While the 1973 half dollar may not be the rarest coin in American numismatics, it offers a fascinating entry point for collectors of all levels. As we move further from its year of issue, well-preserved examples are likely to become scarcer, potentially driving up values for high-grade specimens.
Moreover, the historical significance of the Kennedy half dollar series may lead to increased interest from both numismatists and history enthusiasts in the coming years. This could create opportunities for savvy collectors who invest in quality examples now.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the 1973 Half Dollar
The 1973 Kennedy half dollar may not make headlines for record-breaking auction prices, but it offers a rich tapestry of numismatic interest. From common circulated examples to rare errors and high-grade specimens, there's something for every collector and budget.
As we've explored, values can range from face value for circulated coins to thousands of dollars for rare errors or perfect proof specimens. This diversity makes the 1973 half dollar an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced collectors.
Remember, while monetary value is important, the true worth of coin collecting lies in the joy of the hunt, the appreciation of history, and the connections made with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're building a complete set of Kennedy half dollars or simply enjoy the artistry of American coinage, the 1973 half dollar has much to offer.
As you embark on your collecting journey, keep this guide handy, stay curious, and don't be afraid to ask questions. The world of numismatics is vast and ever-changing, and there's always more to learn. Happy collecting!
