1987-S Lincoln Penny Value What This San Francisco Proof Coin Is Actually Worth
The 1987-S Lincoln Penny is worth anywhere from $1 to over $10 in typical proof condition, with top-grade examples sometimes fetching $20 or more among collectors. If you found one in an old proof set, you might be sitting on more than just a shiny cent.
What Makes the 1987-S Lincoln Penny Different
Not all pennies are created equal, and the 1987-S Lincoln Penny is a perfect example. That little “S” mintmark beneath the date tells you this coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint — and it was never meant for everyday pocket change. The U.S. Mint produced these exclusively as proof coins, sold in special sets directly to collectors. That means they were struck twice with polished dies on highly polished planchets, giving them that mirror-like finish and sharp, frosted relief details that standard circulation cents just don’t have.
If you’re not sure what mintmark your coin has or whether it’s really a proof, a free coin identifier app can help you figure out what you’ve got before you spend time digging deeper. Many people find these coins tucked away in old proof sets from the late 1980s, often still in their original packaging. That original packaging matters — a lot.
How Much Is the 1987-S Lincoln Penny Worth Today
Value depends heavily on condition and whether the coin is graded. Most 1987-S pennies you’ll find in original proof sets will grade between PR-65 and PR-68 by PCGS or NGC standards. Here’s a quick breakdown of typical values:
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR-65 | Gem Proof, minor blemishes | $1 – $3 |
| PR-67 | Superb Gem Proof | $4 – $8 |
| PR-68 | Near-Perfect Proof | $8 – $15 |
| PR-69 | Virtually Perfect Proof | $15 – $25 |
| PR-70 | Perfect Proof | $30+ |
For the most up-to-date market data on this coin, you can check current 1987-S Lincoln Penny price trends and auction results to see what collectors are actually paying right now.
The Deep Cameo Factor and Why It Matters
One thing a lot of casual collectors overlook is the cameo designation. Proof coins can carry three possible designations: no cameo, cameo (CAM), and deep cameo (DCAM). A deep cameo coin has a stark contrast between the frosted portrait of Lincoln and the mirror-like fields — it looks almost like a black-and-white photograph. Deep cameo examples are more desirable and typically command a meaningful premium over standard proofs of the same grade.
The 1987-S Lincoln Penny in PR-68 DCAM, for instance, can sell for noticeably more than a plain PR-68. If you’re serious about understanding exactly what your coin is worth, CoinKnow makes it easy to scan and identify proof designations right from your phone — no magnifying glass required.
Mintage Numbers and Collector Demand
The San Francisco Mint struck approximately 4,227,728 proof Lincoln cents in 1987 as part of that year’s proof set. While that sounds like a lot, remember that these coins were sold to collectors and many were lost, damaged, or removed from their original packaging over the decades. Surviving high-grade examples are rarer than the mintage figures suggest.
For a full breakdown of 1987 penny values across all mint marks and grades, it’s worth reviewing current collector resources before buying or selling. Collector demand for late-1980s proof sets has remained steady, especially for cameo and deep cameo examples in the top grades.
How to Sell Your 1987-S Lincoln Penny
If you’ve confirmed you have a 1987-S and want to sell it, your best options are eBay (look at completed sales, not asking prices), Heritage Auctions, or local coin shows. If the coin is still in its original proof set packaging, keep it that way — taking it out lowers the value. For coins that might grade PR-68 or above, professional grading through PCGS or NGC is worth considering, since a certified label can significantly increase buyer confidence and final sale price. CoinKnow can also help you estimate whether a coin is worth the grading fee before you commit.
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FAQ
Q: Is the 1987-S Lincoln Penny rare?
A: Not particularly rare in terms of mintage — over four million were made. However, finding one in perfect PR-70 or deep cameo condition is genuinely uncommon and those examples do attract serious collector interest.
Q: Can I find a 1987-S penny in regular change?
A: No. The 1987-S was produced exclusively as a proof coin and was only available through U.S. Mint proof sets. If you find a 1987 penny in change, it will be a Philadelphia (no mintmark) or Denver (D) issue.
Q: Does it matter if my 1987-S penny is still in the original proof set?
A: Yes, absolutely. Coins in original government packaging are generally more appealing to buyers. Once removed, they can pick up contact marks or fingerprints that lower the grade — and the value. Keep it sealed if you can. CoinKnow can help you assess value even while the coin remains in its original holder.
