1973 Kennedy Half Dollar Value Guide

The 1973 Kennedy Half Dollar is a significant piece of American numismatic history, serving as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy following his 1963 assassination. Designed by Gilroy Roberts and Frank Gasparro, this specific year marks the continued transition into the copper-nickel clad era, making high-grade specimens highly sought after by collectors.

What affects the value of 1973 Kennedy Half Dollar?

• The presence of a 'S' mint mark indicating a Proof strike, which typically commands a higher premium.
• The overall strike quality and preservation of original mint luster, especially in Uncirculated (MS) grades.
• Surface condition, where the absence of contact marks or scratches significantly increases the value beyond the $1.00 base.
• Potential minting errors or die varieties that are unique to the 1973 production run.

How to Identify 1973 Kennedy Half Dollar?

• Check the obverse for the 1973 date located directly below the bust of John F. Kennedy.
• Verify the composition by looking for a visible copper stripe on the coin's edge, indicating it is copper-nickel clad rather than silver.
• Look for the 'D' or 'P' mint mark above the date to identify the Denver or Philadelphia minting origin.
• Examine the reverse for the presidential seal design created by Frank Gasparro.

History of 1973 Kennedy Half Dollar

The Kennedy half dollar was first issued in 1964 as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy after his assassination in 1963. Designed by Gilroy Roberts and Frank Gasparro, the coin has been produced in various compositions: 90% silver in 1964, 40% silver from 1965–1970, and copper-nickel clad thereafter. The piece became widely collected and circulated, with special bicentennial and proof issues released in later years.