The Survival Estimate represents an average of one or more experts' opinions as to how many examples survive of a particular coin in three categories: 1) all grades, 2) 60 or better, and 3) 65 or better. These estimates are based on a variety of sources, including population reports, auction appearances, and personal knowledge. Survival estimates include coins that are raw, certified by PCGS, and certified by other grading services.
Numismatic Rarity
Numismatic Rarity converts the Survival Estimate for a particular coin into a number from 1 to 10 (with decimal increments) based on the PCGS Rarity Scale. The higher the number, the more rare the coin.
Relative Rarity By Type
Relative Rarity By Type ranks the rarity of this coin with all other coins of this Type. Lower numbers indicate rarer coins.
Relative Rarity By Series
Relative Rarity By Series ranks the rarity of this coin with all other coins of this Series. Lower numbers indicate rarer coins.
David Akers (1975/88):
The 1873-S is extremely rare in any condition. It is more rare than the 1868-S, 1869-S, 1871-S or 1872-S and is equal in rarity to the 1870-S. Almost all known specimens are well worn. All 1873-S Half Eagles have a Closed 3 in the date, and the mintmark is always weak.
David Hall:
I believe the 1873-S $5 Liberty may be unknown in mint state condition. I have never seen one and I can find no auction records of one ever offered as uncirculated.
PCGS is not responsible for the accuracy or authenticity of Ebay listings.