The $5,000 Penny: What Makes It Special?
While most 1987 pennies are worth just 1¢, these rare versions can be worth a small fortune:
💰 MS-69 Red Gem: Up to $5,000
💰 MS-68+ Red: $300-$1,000
💰 Major Error Coins: $100-$500+
3 Ways Your 1987 Penny Could Be Valuable

1. Perfect Condition (MS-69 Red)
- Looks brand new with blazing red luster
- Zero scratches or contact marks
- Found only in unopened mint sets
- Recent sale: $4,560 for a 1987-D MS-69 Red
2. Rare Doubled Die Errors
- “IN GOD WE TRUST” doubling (most valuable)
- Lincoln’s ear doubling
- Need 10x magnification to spot
- Worth $50-$500 depending on strength
3. Repunched Mint Marks
- Look for “D” or “S” that appears doubled
- Most common in Denver (D) mint coins
- Adds $10-$100 premium
How to Spot a Valuable 1987 Penny
Step 1: Check the Mint Mark
- No mark = Philadelphia
- “D” = Denver (most valuable errors)
- “S” = San Francisco (proof coins only)
Step 2: Examine Under Bright Light
A $5,000 penny must have:
✅ Full original red color (like a new penny)
✅ Perfect Lincoln cheekbone detail
✅ Mirror-like fields (no scratches)
Step 3: Magnify for Errors
- Use a 10x loupe
- Check lettering for doubling
- Look for extra metal blobs (die chips)
Real Finds That Will Shock You
- A 1987-D MS-69 Red sold for $4,560 in 2023
- A collector found a doubled die penny worth $1,200 in a coin roll
- A proof 1987-S penny graded PR-70 sold for $850
What To Do If You Find One
- STOP! Handle only by edges with gloves
- Photograph both sides with macro lens
- Store in protective holder
- Submit to PCGS/NGC for grading
Beware of Scams!
❌ “Enhanced” coins (worthless if cleaned)
❌ Fake error coins (always get authenticated)
❌ Altered mint marks
Free $5,000 Penny Evaluation
Think you might have a rare 1987 penny? Our experts can help:
📸 Email high-res photos to PennyExperts@CoinFortunes.com
📞 Text “1987PENNY” to 555-0202 for instant consultation
*”I found my $3,000 penny in my grandmother’s jewelry box!” – Sarah K., Florida*
[🔍 Certified by PCGS | 💎 Updated July 2024]
P.S. These values apply only to authenticated coins. Your pocket change could contain a hidden treasure – will you check?
Reply “PENNYGOLD” for VIP authentication!
Leave a Reply