Price Guide for 1973 Nickel Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $216.00 – $322.00Uncirculated: $8.00 – $42.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $510.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $300.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $8.00 – $336.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $49.99
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $2,300.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $395.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $385.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $7.00 – $552.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1.04 – $140.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 – $2,750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $7.00 – $1,527.50
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eBayUncirculated: $1.30 – $134.40
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 – $2,750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $8.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $14.99
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $2,702.50
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eBayUncirculated: $0.98 – $5,549.95
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $3.00Uncirculated: $3.00 – $4,250.00
Design and Specifications of the 1973 Nickel
The 1973 Jefferson Nickel continued the long-standing design that had been in use since 1938. This year marked the 30th anniversary of the Jefferson Nickel design, which remained largely unchanged since its introduction. The coin holds significance as part of the ongoing series honoring America’s third president, Thomas Jefferson.
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Mint Marks | P, D, S |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Thomas Jefferson, designed by Felix Schlag |
| Reverse Design | Monticello, Jefferson's home, designed by Felix Schlag |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1973 Jefferson Nickels. While circulated examples are generally worth face value, uncirculated coins can command a premium. Coins in MS65 and above are particularly desirable, with those grading MS67 or higher being quite scarce and valuable.
For proof coins, cameo and deep cameo contrast between the fields and devices can significantly increase value, especially in grades PR68 and above.
Mintage: 384,396,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS66, scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to series collectors
Mintage: 351,694,600
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS66, scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to series collectors
Mintage: 2,760,339
Rarity Scale: Common for proofs
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to PR69, scarce in PR70
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, appealing to proof set collectors
Strike quality is an important factor for 1973 Jefferson Nickels. Well-struck coins with full steps on Monticello’s portico are more valuable, particularly in high grades. Luster also plays a role, with coins exhibiting bright, satiny surfaces being more desirable.
For proof issues, the presence of cameo or deep cameo contrast can significantly enhance value. Toning, while less common on nickel coins, can add appeal if attractive and natural.
While not particularly rare, 1973 nickels in pristine condition are part of the larger Jefferson Nickel series, which maintains steady interest among collectors focusing on modern U.S. coinage.
