Most 1987 Lincoln pennies are worth just one cent, but a few rare examples can sell for thousands of dollars! 😱
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you discover if your 1987 penny could be hiding a small fortune.
💰 Why Some 1987 Pennies Are Worth Thousands
Even though billions of 1987 pennies were minted, certain high-grade and error coins are worth serious money.
Check out these record-breaking values:
| Grade / Type | Description | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 🏅 MS-69 Red Gem | Nearly flawless “brand-new” coin | 💵 Up to $5,000 |
| 🔥 MS-68+ Red | Exceptional luster, almost perfect | 💵 $300–$1,000 |
| ⚙️ Major Error Coins | Doubled dies, die chips, off-centers | 💵 $100–$500+ |
🔍 3 Ways Your 1987 Penny Could Be Valuable
🪙 1. Perfect Condition (MS-69 Red)
- Blazing red luster — looks freshly minted ✨
- Zero scratches or marks visible under 5x magnification
- Found only in sealed mint sets
- 📈 Recent sale: 1987-D MS-69 Red sold for $4,560 in 2023
🔁 2. Rare Doubled Die Errors
- Doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST” = most valuable
- Doubling on Lincoln’s ear is also collectible
- Requires 10x magnifier to detect
- 💵 Worth $50–$500, depending on strength and visibility
🔠 3. Repunched Mint Marks (RPMs)
- Look for a doubled “D” or “S” mint mark
- Most common in Denver (D) mint coins
- Adds $10–$100 to collector value
🧭 Step-by-Step: How to Check Your 1987 Penny
✅ Step 1: Check the Mint Mark
Flip your penny and look below the date:
- No mark = Philadelphia mint
- D = Denver mint (most valuable for errors)
- S = San Francisco (proof coins only)
💡 Step 2: Examine Under Bright Light
A true $5,000 penny will have:
- 🔴 Full original red color (no brown or faded spots)
- 👤 Sharp Lincoln cheekbone detail
- 🪞 Mirror-like surfaces with zero scratches
🔬 Step 3: Magnify for Hidden Errors
Use a 10x loupe or macro camera to:
- Inspect lettering for doubling
- Spot extra metal blobs (die chips)
- Detect repunched mint marks
😲 Real-Life Finds That Will Shock You
- 💎 1987-D MS-69 Red sold for $4,560 (2023 auction)
- 🔍 A collector found a doubled die penny worth $1,200 in a coin roll!
- 🪞 A proof 1987-S PR-70 penny sold for $850
🧤 What to Do If You Find a Rare Penny
If your coin looks flawless, don’t clean or polish it! Follow these steps instead:
- Handle carefully by the edges only (use cotton gloves)
- Take macro photos of both sides 📸
- Store in a protective coin holder
- Submit to PCGS or NGC for grading
- Get an insurance quote before shipping valuable coins
⚠️ Beware of Fake or Altered Coins
Many scammers try to pass off fakes. Here’s how to stay safe:
🚫 “Enhanced” coins that were cleaned or polished are worthless.
🚫 Fake “error” coins are common — always verify authenticity.
🚫 Only trust grading companies like PCGS or NGC.
🧑💼 Free $5,000 Penny Evaluation
Think you’ve found a valuable one? Our coin experts can help for free:
📧 Email clear, high-resolution photos to: PennyExperts@CoinFortunes.com
📱 Text “1987PENNY” to 555-0202 for instant feedback.
💬 “I found my $3,000 penny in my grandmother’s jewelry box!” – Sarah K., Florida
🏁 Final Thoughts: Check Your Pocket Change!
Even a common 1987 penny could turn out to be a rare $5,000 find if it’s in perfect mint condition or has unique errors.
So before you toss your change jar, take a closer look — your treasure might already be at home! 💎🪙
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