In the world of amateur radio, there are few sign-offs as widely known and cherished as “73”. But what does it really mean, and where did it come from? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the origins of “73,” its historical context, and its journey into amateur radio culture. We’ll also give credit to the people and codes that made “73” the ubiquitous sign-off it is today. Let’s explore not only how it started but also how its meaning has evolved and endured over the years, reflecting the enduring spirit of camaraderie among amateur radio enthusiasts.
The Origins: The Phillips Code and Telegraphy
The number 73 originates from a set of numeric abbreviations known as the Phillips Code. The Phillips Code was developed by Walter P. Phillips, a journalist and telegraph operator, in 1859. The primary purpose of the Phillips Code was to create a shorthand for frequently used phrases in telegraph communication, thereby improving efficiency and reducing the time needed to send messages across the wire. In a time when every second counted, these codes helped telegraph operators convey information more effectively, cutting down on both cost and time.
Within the Phillips Code, “73” was designated as shorthand for “my compliments” or “best regards“. It was a formal way to end a message politely, similar to how we might sign off an email with “Best wishes” today. The use of numeric codes to express common phrases was practical and quickly adopted by telegraphers worldwide, laying the foundation for much of the shorthand still used in radio communications today.
The adoption of the Phillips Code provided a standardisation that greatly improved the efficiency of communication over long distances. During the 19th century, telegraphy was the cutting-edge technology of the time, connecting cities, regions, and countries in ways that had previously been unimaginable. The ability to communicate quickly and clearly was paramount, and the Phillips Code provided a structured method to do just that. These shorthand codes became essential to telegraph operators, and their practical value ensured that some, like “73,” would continue to be used long after the telegraph wires went silent.
Phillips Code Numbers
The Phillips Code contained numerous numeric abbreviations that served different purposes in telegraphy. Below is a comprehensive table of all the Phillips Code numbers and their meanings. Codes that are still in use today are marked in bold.
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wait a moment |
| 2 | Important business |
| 3 | What time is it? |
| 4 | Where shall I go ahead? |
| 5 | Have you anything for me? |
| 6 | I am ready |
| 7 | Are you ready? |
| 8 | Close your key; circuit is busy |
| 9 | Attention or clear the wire |
| 10 | Keep this circuit closed |
| 12 | Do you understand? |
| 13 | I do not understand |
| 14 | What is the weather? |
| 15 | For you and others |
| 17 | Lightning here |
| 18 | What number did you call? |
| 19 | Form 19 train order |
| 21 | Stop for a meal |
| 22 | Love and kisses |
| 23 | All copy |
| 24 | Repeat this back |
| 25 | Busy on another wire |
| 26 | Put on ground wire |
| 27 | Priority message |
| 28 | Do you get my writing? |
| 30 | Finished or the end |
| 31 | Form 31 train order |
| 32 | I understand that |
| 33 | Answer is paid |
| 34 | Message for all officers |
| 35 | You may use my signal |
| 37 | Operator is off duty |
| 39 | Important, with priority |
| 44 | Answer promptly by wire |
| 50 | Money received |
| 55 | Important, give precedence |
| 73 | My compliments or best regards |
| 77 | I have a message for you |
| 88 | Love and kisses |
| 92 | Deliver |
| 134 | Who is at the keyboard? |
While many of these codes fell out of common usage as technology advanced, “73” persisted—thanks largely to the spirit of camaraderie among telegraph operators and, later, radio amateurs. The enduring appeal of “73” highlights the value of maintaining tradition within an evolving field.
The Adoption by Amateur Radio
As radio technology emerged and the amateur radio hobby began to take shape in the early 20th century, many of the practices from telegraphy naturally transitioned into this new medium. The world was experiencing a communications revolution, with radio waves adding a whole new dimension of wireless communication. Radio amateurs, or “hams,” quickly adopted the Phillips Code, finding it useful for their purposes. In particular, “73” became the go-to way to express friendly sign-off wishes after a QSO (a contact or conversation between two radio operators).
In the context of amateur radio, “73” evolved to mean “best regards,” a friendly way of concluding a transmission while maintaining brevity. This made it ideal for both voice and Morse code communications, where operators often need to convey a lot of information as efficiently as possible. As radio gained popularity, the emphasis on maintaining brevity while fostering a sense of connection became important, and “73” served this purpose perfectly.
The endurance of “73” is largely due to the sense of community and mutual respect inherent in amateur radio; it’s a simple yet effective way to acknowledge the other person on the airwaves. This community spirit is one of the core principles of amateur radio, where operators—whether they are experienced or beginners—respect each other and foster goodwill. When you hear “73” on the air, it carries the weight of decades of tradition, a nod to the operators of the past who first used these simple yet meaningful codes to connect over long distances.
Avoiding the Common Mistake: ’73s’
One common mistake that sometimes appears, even among seasoned operators, is the use of “73s“. It’s important to remember that “73” is already plural in nature—it’s shorthand for “best regards,” not “best regard.” Adding an “s” at the end, such as saying “73s,” effectively means “best regardses,” which is grammatically incorrect and considered an improper use of the term. It’s a small but significant detail that reflects respect for the history of the code and a commitment to proper radio etiquette.
Maintaining accuracy in the use of codes like “73” is part of preserving the heritage of amateur radio. This respect for tradition not only keeps communication clear and standardized but also honors the operators who laid the groundwork for the community we enjoy today. The seemingly small distinction between “73” and “73s” underscores the value of understanding the history behind the phrases we use and why they matter in maintaining clarity and respect within the amateur radio hobby.
Keeping the Spirit Alive: The Legacy of ’73’
“73” has survived for well over a century, moving from the telegraph wires of the 19th century to the HF, VHF, and UHF frequencies that hams use today. It’s more than just a number—it’s a symbol of the camaraderie that defines amateur radio. When we say “73,” we’re tapping into a tradition that links us to the very origins of electronic communication and pays tribute to the telegraphers who came before us.
Whether you’re ending a casual chat on the local repeater or wrapping up a DX (long-distance) QSO with a station across the globe, “73” remains a simple yet profound way of saying, “I enjoyed our conversation, and I wish you well.” It’s a small reminder of the shared bond between radio operators, regardless of borders, languages, or distances.
The amateur radio community is built on shared knowledge, respect for one another, and a desire to connect. “73” embodies these principles in a succinct and timeless manner. By using “73,” you are not just saying goodbye—you are affirming a tradition of respect and mutual appreciation that has spanned decades. This continuity across generations of operators highlights the cultural significance of amateur radio, where values of learning, connection, and cooperation transcend the technology that underpins it.
Conclusion
The meaning of “73” in amateur radio can be traced back to Walter P. Phillips and the Phillips Code, where it served as shorthand for “my compliments.” Over time, it evolved into “best regards” and became a mainstay in the language of radio amateurs. Its survival is a testament to the rich history of amateur radio and the strong sense of community among hams around the world.
Next time you’re signing off on a QSO, remember that when you say “73”, you’re echoing more than a century of radio tradition, one that started with the rapid taps of a telegraph key and continues today in the digital age. You are linking yourself with the early telegraphers, the pioneers of radio, and the thousands of amateur operators who have kept this tradition alive. So, 73 to all, and may your signals always be strong!