Most 1987 Lincoln Memorial pennies are only worth 1 cent — but a few ultra-rare errors could make yours worth six or even seven figures. 
Here’s how to tell if your 1987 penny is an ordinary coin or a numismatic jackpot.
Million-Dollar Error Varieties
1987 “IN GOD WE TRUST” Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
Strong doubling on the motto and date
Only 3 confirmed specimens exist
Last auction sale: $1.1M (2023)
1987 Copper Planchet Error (Pre-1982 Composition)
Struck on 95% copper instead of the usual zinc
Correct weight: 3.11g (not 2.5g)
Unique example valued at $1.5M
1987 No Mint Mark Proof Strike
Accidentally struck as a proof coin in Philadelphia
Features: Mirror-like fields + frosted design- Only 1 known specimen — estimated $750,000+
Authentication Protocol
For the DDO Error:
- Use 50x magnification
- Look for tripled lettering on “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- Must match known die cracks/markers
For the Copper Planchet Error:
- Weigh the coin (should be 3.11g)
- Perform a magnet test (copper is non-magnetic)
Pro Tip: Submit any suspicious coin to PCGS or NGC under secure shipping for professional grading.
Market Insights (2024)
Registry set collectors are paying huge premiums for ultra-rare 1980s errors.- Museums are actively acquiring unique modern rarities.
Trend: 1980s Lincoln errors are starting to surpass classic coins in value.
Important Warning
- 99.9% of 1987 pennies are only worth $0.01 – $1
Never clean your coins — it destroys authenticity and value
Free High-Value Evaluation
Think you’ve found a six-figure 1987 penny? Here’s how to check:
Take macro 4K photos (front + back)- Include weight and magnet test results
Send to: experts@PennyVerse.info
Get a confidential evaluation within 72 hours
Collector testimonial:
“Your guide helped me identify a $250K error!” – Mark T., TX
[
All submissions protected under attorney-client privilege]
Final Value Recap
Normal 1987 Pennies: 1¢ – $1
Major Errors: $750,000 – $1.5 Million
Learn more with our comparison tools: PennyVerse.info/1987-Penny
Act fast — our 2024 Error Coin Fund has $15M available for acquisitions!
