The 1873 Indian Head pennies have value as numismatic coins. Keep reading to learn more about these one cent coins.
Specifications
Type: Indian Head Penny
Year: 1873
Face Value: $0.01
Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
Total Weight: 3.11 grams
For this year there are two different varieties, cents with the closed 3 in the date 1873 and cents with the open 3. The image below shows what the difference is.
Proof coins were minted and they all have the closed 3. Proof coins are essentially coins that have more detail. They are minted on special planchets and it takes longer to produce them. They are specifically made for collectors.
There is no mint mark on these coins. Each coin was minted in Philadelphia.
| Series | Location | Quantity Minted |
|---|---|---|
| 1873 | Philadelphia | 11,676,500 |
| 1873 Proof | Philadelphia | 1,500-2,000 |
Value
The value is going to depend on the coin's type and its condition. Below we will review the two different varieties and also a rare error coin.
Closed 3 Coins
The 1873 Indian Head penny with the closed 3 is worth around $35 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $135. In extremely fine condition the value is around $215. In uncirculated condition the price is around $400 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $550.
The 1873 Indian Head proof penny is worth around $300 in PR 63 condition.
Open 3 Coins
The 1873 Indian Head penny with the open 3 is worth around $30 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $115. In extremely fine condition the value is around $190. In uncirculated condition the price is around $300 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $400.
Double Liberty Error Coins
There is a notable rare error variety for this series. On these error coins the word "LIBERTY" is minted twice onto the coin.
The 1873 Indian Head penny with the double liberty error is worth around $275 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $1,450. In extremely fine condition the value is around $3,000. In uncirculated condition the price is around $6,500 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $8,750.
Grading System
Good- The word "LIBERTY" inscribed on Liberty's headband is not visible.
Very fine- The word "LIBERTY" inscribed on Liberty's headband is visible but there is slight wear.
Extremely fine- The word "LIBERTY" inscribed on Liberty's headband is sharp. The other details on the coin are also sharp. There is slight wear on the end of the ribbon.
MS 60 uncirculated- There are no signs of wear. The coin has luster, but there may be a few stains, abrasions, or surface marks.
MS 63 choice uncirculated- In the major focal areas there are some blemishes or contact marks. The coin's luster might not be as prominent.
PR 63 proof- This coin has reflective surfaces and only a few blemishes away from the major focal points. There are no major flaws.
Sources:
The Red Book
See also:
1874 Indian Head Penny
1872 Indian Head Penny
1871 Indian Head Penny