Is a 1973 Half Dollar Worth Anything?

Many people wonder if a 1973 half dollar is worth more than its face value. While most circulating coins retain their fifty-cent denomination, certain attributes can increase a coin’s worth for collectors. This guide explores the factors that differentiate a common 1973 half dollar from a potentially valuable collectible.

Coin Composition and Base Value

The 1973 Kennedy half dollar is not silver, a common misconception for older coins. It features a copper-nickel clad composition, consisting of an outer layer of copper and nickel bonded to a pure copper core. This material choice, implemented in 1971, significantly reduced the intrinsic metal value compared to earlier silver issues. Most 1973 half dollars found in circulation are worth only their face value of 50 cents.

Factors That Increase Value

Condition

While most 1973 half dollars are worth face value, certain characteristics make them more desirable to collectors. Condition is key to determining a coin’s value. Uncirculated coins, showing no wear and retaining original mint luster, are highly sought after. Professional grading services assess a coin’s condition, assigning grades like MS60 to MS70 for uncirculated pieces, with higher numbers indicating better preservation and greater value.

Mint Marks

Mint marks also play a role in a coin’s worth. For 1973 Kennedy half dollars, coins were struck at three mints: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Philadelphia Mint coins do not carry a mint mark. Denver coins feature a “D” mint mark, and San Francisco proof coins have an “S” mint mark. While Denver-minted coins had the highest mintage for circulation, San Francisco produced proof-only coins not intended for general circulation.

Errors and Varieties

Minting errors or varieties can also increase a coin’s value. These rare anomalies occur during the production process. For the 1973 half dollar, known errors include doubled dies, where design elements appear duplicated, and off-center strikes. Some 1973 half dollars may also exhibit a “no FG” error, where the designer’s initials are missing from the reverse. These errors require close examination and command higher prices from collectors.

How to Determine Your Coin’s Value

Initial Examination

To assess your 1973 half dollar’s value, begin by carefully examining the coin. Use good lighting and a magnifying glass to inspect for signs of wear, scratches, or loss of original luster. Pay close attention to Kennedy’s profile and the eagle on the reverse, as wear often appears on high points first. Locate the mint mark, typically below Kennedy’s neck and above the date, to identify its origin.

Research and Handling

Next, research its value by consulting reputable coin price guides or online numismatic databases. These resources provide estimated values based on the coin’s condition and specific features, such as mint marks or known errors. Comparing your coin to images of professionally graded examples can help you gauge its condition. Always handle coins by their edges to avoid transferring oils or causing damage, and avoid cleaning them, as this can diminish their collector value.

Expert Opinion

If you suspect your coin has a rare error or is in exceptionally high uncirculated condition, consider seeking an expert opinion. Professional coin dealers or third-party grading services, such as PCGS or NGC, can authenticate and grade your coin. While these services involve fees, they provide an impartial assessment and and can confirm if your 1973 half dollar holds value beyond its face value.