🪙 Is Your 1987 Lincoln Penny a Hidden $5,000 Treasure?
Most 1987 Lincoln pennies are worth only one cent, but a small number of rare examples have sold for thousands of dollars at auction. 😲
In this easy step-by-step guide, you’ll learn why some 1987 pennies are valuable, how to spot them, and what to do if you find one.
💰 Why Some 1987 Pennies Are Worth Thousands
Although billions of pennies were produced in 1987, collectors pay premium prices for:
- Ultra-high mint-state coins
- Rare minting errors
- Perfect proof examples
🔥 Record Prices for 1987 Pennies
| Grade / Type | Description | Value |
|---|---|---|
| 🏅 MS-69 Red | Nearly flawless, “as struck” | 💵 Up to $5,000 |
| 🔥 MS-68+ Red | Exceptional luster | 💵 $300–$1,000 |
| ⚙️ Major Errors | Doubled dies, off-center strikes | 💵 $100–$500+ |
🔍 3 Ways Your 1987 Penny Could Be Valuable
🪙 1. Perfect Condition (MS-69 Red)
These coins look brand new and are incredibly rare.
✔️ Bright original red copper color
✔️ Zero visible marks under 5× magnification
✔️ Usually found only in sealed mint sets
📈 Recent sale: A 1987-D MS-69 Red penny sold for $4,560 in 2023.
🔁 2. Rare Doubled Die Errors
Some 1987 pennies were struck with doubled designs.
✔️ Doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST”
✔️ Doubling on Lincoln’s ear
✔️ Requires 10× magnification
💵 Value range: $50–$500+, depending on strength.
🔠 3. Repunched Mint Marks (RPMs)
Look closely at the mint mark.
✔️ Doubled or shifted “D” or “S”
✔️ Most common on Denver-mint coins
💵 Added value: $10–$100
🧭 Step-by-Step: How to Check Your 1987 Penny
✅ Step 1: Identify the Mint Mark
Check below the date:
- No mint mark → Philadelphia
- D → Denver (best for errors)
- S → San Francisco (proof coins only)
💡 Step 2: Examine Under Bright Light
A potential high-value penny should show:
🔴 Full original red color
👤 Sharp Lincoln cheekbone details
🪞 Smooth, scratch-free surfaces
🔬 Step 3: Magnify for Errors
Using a 10× loupe or macro camera, inspect for:
✔️ Doubled letters
✔️ Extra metal (die chips)
✔️ Repunched mint marks
😲 Real-Life 1987 Penny Discoveries
💎 1987-D MS-69 Red sold for $4,560
🔍 A doubled-die penny found in circulation sold for $1,200
🪞 A 1987-S PR-70 proof sold for $850
✨ These coins are still being discovered today.
🧤 What to Do If You Find a Rare Penny
🚫 Never clean or polish your coin — it destroys value.
✔️ Follow These Steps:
1️⃣ Handle by the edges only (cotton gloves recommended)
2️⃣ Take clear macro photos 📸
3️⃣ Store in a protective coin holder
4️⃣ Submit to PCGS or NGC for grading
5️⃣ Insure valuable coins before shipping
⚠️ Beware of Fake or Altered Coins
🚫 Cleaned or polished coins lose all premium value
🚫 Fake error coins are common online
🚫 Only trust certified grading companies like PCGS and NGC
🧑💼 Free 1987 Penny Evaluation
Think you found something special? Our experts can help:
📧 Email clear photos to: PennyExperts@CoinFortunes.com
📱 Text “1987PENNY” to 555-0202 for quick feedback
💬 “I found my $3,000 penny in my grandmother’s jewelry box!”
— Sarah K., Florida
🏁 Final Thoughts: Check Your Pocket Change
While most 1987 pennies are ordinary, a flawless or error coin could be worth up to $5,000.
Before spending your spare change, take a closer look — your hidden treasure may already be at home. 💎🪙
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