Have you ever wondered if that loose change jingling in your pocket might be worth more than its face value? When it comes to the 1973 nickel, you might just be sitting on a small fortune. As a seasoned US coin collecting expert, I'm here to guide you through the fascinating world of this coin and reveal its potential hidden value.
A Brief History of the Jefferson Nickel
The 1973 nickel is part of the Jefferson nickel series, which has been a staple of American coinage since 1938. These five-cent pieces feature Thomas Jefferson, one of America's founding fathers and its third president, on the obverse (front) side.
Design Elements
- Obverse: Depicts a left-facing profile of Thomas Jefferson
- Reverse: Features Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia home
The design, created by Felix Schlag, has remained largely unchanged for over 80 years, making it one of the longest-running coin designs in U.S. history.
Mintage Numbers and Rarity
In 1973, the U.S. Mint produced a substantial number of nickels across three locations:
| Mint Location | Mintage | Mint Mark |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 384,396,000 | None |
| Denver | 261,311,600 | D |
| San Francisco | 2,760,339 | S (Proof) |
While these numbers might seem high, certain factors can make some 1973 nickels quite rare and valuable.
Factors Affecting the 1973 Nickel's Value
Several key elements influence the worth of a 1973 nickel:
- Mint mark: Where the coin was produced
- Condition: The coin's state of preservation
- Errors: Any mistakes made during the minting process
- Special designations: Such as "Full Steps" examples
Let's delve deeper into each of these factors.
Mint Marks and Their Impact on Value
1973 No Mint Mark Nickel Value
Nickels from Philadelphia are the most common, with over 384 million produced. Here's a detailed breakdown of their potential value:
| Condition | Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $0.05 |
| MS60 | $0.30 |
| MS65 | $14 |
| MS65 Full Steps | $15 |
| MS67 | $350 |
| MS67 Full Steps | $2,750 |
1973-D Nickel Value
Denver minted over 261 million nickels in 1973. Their values are similar to Philadelphia coins:
| Condition | Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $0.05 |
| MS60 | $1 |
| MS65 | $14 |
| MS65 Full Steps | $18 |
| MS67 | $200 |
| MS67 Full Steps | $2,500 |
1973-S Proof Nickel Value
San Francisco produced about 2.76 million proof nickels. These specially made collector coins can be quite valuable:
| Condition | Value |
|---|---|
| PR60 Deep Cameo | $3 |
| PR65 Deep Cameo | $5 |
| PR69 Deep Cameo | $15 |
| PR70 Deep Cameo | $4,250 |
Understanding Coin Grading
The condition of a coin is crucial in determining its value. Numismatists use the Sheldon Scale, which ranges from 1 to 70:
- 1-59: Circulated coins
- 60-70: Uncirculated or mint state coins
For 1973 nickels, coins graded MS65 and above are considered "gems" and command higher prices. The grading process takes into account factors such as:
- Surface preservation
- Luster
- Strike quality
- Overall eye appeal
The "Full Steps" Designation: A Key to Higher Value
A unique feature of Jefferson nickels is the "Full Steps" designation. This refers to the steps on Monticello's facade on the reverse side. Coins with clearly defined steps are rarer and more valuable.
To qualify as "Full Steps," a 1973 nickel must show:
- At least 5 complete steps (6 for the highest grade)
- Clear separation between each step
- No wear or flattening on the steps
Full Steps nickels can be worth significantly more than their standard counterparts. For example:
- A 1973 nickel in MS67 condition: ~$350
- The same coin with Full Steps: ~$2,750
This dramatic price difference highlights the importance of this designation to collectors.
Rare 1973 Nickel Errors: The Numismatist's Holy Grail
Errors during the minting process can create rare and valuable coins. Here are some notable examples:
-
1973-D Nickel Struck on Philippine 5-sentimo Planchet
- Wrong planchet used, resulting in a gold-colored, smaller nickel
- Sold for $450 at auction
-
1973-D Nickel, Double Struck, 75% Off-center
- Struck twice, with the second strike significantly off-center
- Sold for $585 at auction
-
1973 Nickel with Major Die Break
- Large crack in the die created a raised line on the coin
- Can sell for $50-$100 depending on the severity
-
1973 Nickel with Misaligned Dies
- Obverse and reverse images don't align properly
- Value depends on the degree of misalignment, but can reach $50+
How to Identify a Valuable 1973 Nickel
To determine if your 1973 nickel might be worth more than face value:
- Check the mint mark (or lack thereof)
- Examine the overall condition
- Look for any obvious errors or abnormalities
- Use a magnifying glass to check for Full Steps on Monticello
- Inspect for any signs of die cracks or other minting errors
Preserving Your 1973 Nickel
If you believe you have a valuable 1973 nickel:
- Handle it by the edges to avoid damaging the surfaces
- Store it in a non-PVC holder or flip
- Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Consider having it professionally graded for authentication and protection
The Market for 1973 Nickels: Trends and Predictions
The market for 1973 nickels, like all collectible coins, is subject to fluctuations. However, certain trends have emerged:
- High-grade examples (MS67 and above) have seen steady appreciation
- Full Steps varieties continue to command significant premiums
- Error coins, especially dramatic ones, remain highly sought after
Looking ahead, factors that could influence future values include:
- Overall economic conditions affecting the coin market
- Changes in collector interests and demographics
- Discovery of new rare errors or varieties
Where to Sell Your Valuable 1973 Nickel
If you've discovered a potentially valuable 1973 nickel, consider these options for selling:
- Reputable coin dealers (check for American Numismatic Association membership)
- Online auction sites specializing in coins (e.g., Heritage Auctions, Stack's Bowers)
- Coin shows and exhibitions
- Local coin clubs or collector groups
Always research current market values and get multiple opinions before selling. The Red Book (A Guide Book of United States Coins) is an excellent resource for current retail values.
The Thrill of the Hunt: Why Collect 1973 Nickels?
While the potential for financial gain exists, many collectors are drawn to 1973 nickels for other reasons:
- Historical significance: They represent a tangible piece of American history
- Accessibility: They can still be found in circulation, making collecting affordable
- Variety: With different mint marks and potential errors, there's always something new to discover
- Challenge: Finding high-grade or Full Steps examples provides a satisfying challenge
Conclusion: Is Your 1973 Nickel a Hidden Treasure?
While the vast majority of 1973 nickels are worth only five cents, there's always the possibility of finding a rare gem. By understanding what makes these coins valuable – mint marks, condition, errors, and special designations like Full Steps – you're better equipped to spot a potential treasure in your change.
Remember, the thrill of coin collecting isn't just about monetary value. It's about connecting with history, appreciating craftsmanship, and enjoying the hunt for something special. So the next time you come across a 1973 nickel, take a closer look – you never know what you might discover!
As a final note, always handle your coins with care and consider consulting with a professional numismatist if you believe you've found something truly special. Happy hunting!
