Could your 1987 Lincoln Memorial Penny be worth a jaw-dropping $200,000? 
While most 1987 pennies are only worth one cent, some collectors claim that rare errors can turn this ordinary coin into a life-changing treasure.
While most 1987 pennies are only worth one cent, some collectors claim that rare errors can turn this ordinary coin into a life-changing treasure.Let’s break it down so you can check your 1987 pennies today and see if you’re holding hidden gold in your pocket change!
Why the 1987 Penny Could Be Valuable
Billions Minted: The U.S. Mint struck a massive number of 1987 pennies, making most of them common.
Error Potential: Even with huge production runs, mistakes happen. These errors are what make certain coins valuable.
The $200,000 Claim: A unique 1987 Lincoln Penny with a major error (like a strong Doubled Die Obverse or a mule coin) is said to have allegedly sold for $200,000 in 2024.
While not every coin will reach that value, knowing what to look for gives you the best shot at finding a hidden gem.
Quick Guide: How to Spot Rare Errors on a 1987 Penny
Grab a magnifying glass or coin loupe 
and start hunting! Here’s what to check:
Check the Date & Mint Mark
- Look just below Lincoln’s portrait for “1987” and the mint mark (D for Denver or P for Philadelphia).
- Errors often show in the numbers or letters.
Look at “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- Focus on the motto at the top of the coin.
- What to spot: Clear, strong doubling (two distinct sets of lines).
Other Common Errors
- Die Chips: Small raised bumps on the coin.
- Off-Center Strikes: Part of the design missing.
- Struck-Through Errors: Strange lines or textures caused by debris during minting.
Use a Loupe or Magnifier
Even small errors can be worth hundreds — so don’t skip this step!
How to Maximize the Value of Your 1987 Penny
If you find something unusual, don’t clean the coin (cleaning destroys value!). Instead:
Get it Graded: Submit to PCGS, NGC, or ANACS for professional certification.
Sell Smart: Use trusted coin dealers, eBay, or online auctions.
Keep It Safe: Store in a protective coin holder.
Collector Tips for Success
Magnify EVERYTHING — even tiny details matter.
Compare with online error coin photos.
Be patient — coin hunting takes time, but rewards can be big.
The Market for Error Coins in 2024
- Modern Error Coins Are Hot: Collectors love unique mistakes.
Certified Coins Sell Higher: A graded error coin is trusted and fetches more money.
Online Auctions Are Active: Thousands of collectors buy and sell daily.
Join the PennyVerse Community!
At PennyVerse.info, we help collectors like YOU discover rare treasures in pocket change.
Get free alerts about rare coin finds.
Watch live demos on spotting errors.
Access beginner-friendly resources.
Found an interesting 1987 Penny? Send us photos for a free preliminary check! 
