Coin Specifications

Series: Kennedy Half Dollar

Year: 1973

Mint Mark: None (This indicates it was minted in Philadelphia).

Composition: Copper-Nickel Clad (Outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel, bonded to a pure copper core).

Note: 1964 halves were 90% silver, and 1965–1970 were 40% silver, but by 1973, they contained no silver content for general circulation.

Weight: 11.34 grams

Diameter: 30.6 mm

Visual Analysis

Obverse (Front)

Portrait: Features the left-facing profile of President John F. Kennedy.

Inscriptions: "LIBERTY" arcs across the top; "IN GOD WE TRUST" is positioned across the lower center; the date "1973" is at the bottom.

Condition Observations: There is visible toning/discoloration, particularly on the right side of the coin and around the edges. There is a small yellowish mark or debris near the bridge of JFK's nose.

Reverse (Back)

Design: Based on the Presidential Seal, featuring a heraldic eagle holding an olive branch (peace) and a bundle of 13 arrows (war). A ring of 50 stars surrounds the design.

Inscriptions: "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" at the top; "HALF DOLLAR" at the bottom; the motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" on the scroll above the eagle.

Condition Observations: There are significant dark spots/environmental damage on the right side (near the "A" in AMERICA). The surface shows moderate "bag marks" or small scratches consistent with a coin that has spent time in circulation.

Value & Collectibility

In its current condition, this coin is considered Circulated.

Market Value: Because 1973 is a high-mintage year (nearly 65 million produced in Philadelphia) and this specific coin shows signs of wear and environmental staining, its value is generally face value ($0.50).

Key Varieties: Collectors sometimes look for the "Doubled Die" varieties for this year, though none are immediately apparent in these photos.

Pro Tip: If you ever find a 1970 Kennedy Half, hang onto it! They were only issued in mint sets and are much rarer than the 1973.