1887 Indian Head Cent Value Guide | $3 to $51,750
1887 Indian Head Cent values range from $3 in circulated grades to $51,750 for MS-67 RD specimens. Learn about proof strikes, the valuable FS-101 DDO variety, and mint errors.
The 1887 Indian Head Cent is worth $3 to $51,750, with value determined by strike type, grade, and color preservation.
- Circulated: $3 – $40 (common in worn grades)
- Uncirculated Business Strikes: $90 – $30,000+ (RD examples command massive premiums)
- Proof Strikes: $200 – $18,400 (2,960 mintage makes all proofs scarce)
- FS-101 DDO Variety: $40 – $1,000+ (top-10 variety in series)
While 45 million business strikes were produced, the 1887 cent becomes a dramatic condition rarity in gem preservation, with original red color commanding exponential premiums.
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1887 Indian Head Cent: Overview and Market Position
The 1887 Indian Head Cent represents a fascinating paradox in American numismatics. Struck exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint with a substantial business strike mintage of 45,223,523 coins, it ranks among the most common dates in the series when viewed in circulated grades. Yet this accessibility masks a profound truth: the 1887 cent transforms into an extreme condition rarity in high states of preservation, particularly for specimens retaining original mint red color. Values begin at just $3 for worn examples but escalate dramatically to $51,750 for top-graded business strikes, illustrating how "common" coins can become rarities when grade and color preservation reach exceptional levels.
This guide provides comprehensive market analysis covering business strikes, the low-mintage proof issues (2,960 struck), the highly sought-after FS-101 Doubled Die Obverse variety, and various mint errors. Understanding the interplay between grade, color designation, and strike type is essential for collectors navigating this stratified market.
How to Identify the 1887 Indian Head Cent
All 1887 Indian Head Cents were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and therefore do not carry a mint mark. On later Indian Head Cents where mint marks were used (1908-S and 1909-S only), the "S" mint mark appears on the reverse below the knot of the wreath, but this feature is not present on the 1887 issue.
Design Type: Type 3 Bronze (1864-1909)
The 1887 cent is classified as a Type 3 "Bronze" Indian Head Cent, the final design type in the series that ran from mid-1864 through 1909. The design was created by Chief Engraver James B. Longacre.
Obverse Design: The obverse features the head of Liberty facing left, wearing a Native American feathered headdress. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed on the band of the headdress. The date "1887" appears at the bottom, and the legend "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircles the portrait. A key identifier for cents dated 1887 and later is the position of the final feather on the headdress, which points between the letters 'C' and 'A' in AMERICA.
Reverse Design: The reverse displays an oak wreath tied with a ribbon at the bottom. A small shield with vertical stripes is positioned at the top of the wreath. The denomination "ONE CENT" is located within the center of the wreath.
Physical Specifications
- Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Diameter: 19.00 millimeters
- Edge: Plain
Distinguishing Business Strikes from Proofs
Business Strike: Intended for circulation, these coins have a standard finish that can range from a soft, satin-like luster to a more matte appearance when new. The fields (the flat backgrounds) are not mirrored, and overall strike sharpness can vary.
Proof Strike: Specially manufactured for collectors, Proofs are struck multiple times with polished dies on polished planchets. This process results in sharp, well-defined details, squared-off rims, and deeply reflective, mirror-like fields. The raised design elements (devices) are often frosted, creating a distinct visual contrast known as "cameo."
1887 Indian Head Cent Price Guide
The market for 1887 Indian Head Cents is highly stratified by strike type, grade, and color preservation. While circulated examples are readily available and affordable, uncirculated specimens—particularly those with original red color—command substantial premiums. The following valuations consolidate data from PCGS and NGC price guides, supplemented by auction records from major numismatic houses.
Business Strikes (Philadelphia Mint)
With 45,223,523 business strikes produced, the 1887 cent is common in circulated grades but transforms into a condition rarity in high mint state grades. Color designation becomes the critical value factor for uncirculated examples, with Red (RD) specimens commanding exponential premiums over Brown (BN) and Red-Brown (RB) counterparts.
| Grade | BN Value | RB Value | RD Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $3 – $5 | N/A | N/A |
| VF-20 | $10 – $15 | N/A | N/A |
| EF-40 | $18 – $25 | N/A | N/A |
| AU-50 | $35 – $40 | N/A | N/A |
| MS-62 | $90 – $110 | $140 – $160 | $180 – $200 |
| MS-63 | $130 – $175 | $215 | $340 |
| MS-64 | $200 – $260 | $400 – $450 | $775 |
| MS-65 | $350 – $365 | $800 – $900 | $2,000 – $2,100 |
| MS-66 | $900 – $1,175 | $1,500 – $2,000 | $8,000 |
| MS-67 | Auction Dependent | Auction Dependent | $30,000+ |
Data sources: PCGS Price Guide and NGC Price Guide (October-November 2025). Auction record for MS-67 RD: $51,750.
Proof Strikes (Philadelphia Mint)
The Philadelphia Mint produced just 2,960 Proof cents in 1887 for collectors, establishing their inherent scarcity. The market for these coins is sophisticated, with values driven by grade, surface preservation, and the degree of cameo contrast. Population analysis reveals that approximately 52% of surviving Proofs are Brown (BN), 43% are Red-Brown (RB), a mere 4% are Red (RD), and only 1% exhibit enough contrast to earn a Cameo designation.
| Grade | PR-BN | PR-RB | PR-RD | PR-CAM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PR-62 | $200 – $250 | $275 – $325 | Auction Dependent | Auction Dependent |
| PR-63 | $230 – $300 | $350 – $450 | $800+ | Auction Dependent |
| PR-64 | $355 – $430 | $450 – $550 | $920 – $1,200 | $1,500+ |
| PR-65 | $475 – $650 | $600 – $880 | $2,100 – $4,100 | $3,800+ |
| PR-66 | $1,200 – $1,800 | $1,300 – $3,000 | $9,000+ | Auction Dependent |
| PR-67 | $3,250+ | $4,300+ | Auction Dependent | Auction Dependent |
Data sources: NGC Price Guide (August 2019), Stack's Bowers and Heritage Auctions archives. PR-65 RD Cameo auction record: $3,840 (Stack's Bowers, 2019). Auction record for top-grade proofs: $18,400.
Melt Value
Based on spot prices from early November 2025 (copper at approximately $5.07 per pound, tin at $36,300 per metric ton, zinc at $1.42 per pound), the calculated melt value of an 1887 Indian Head Cent is approximately $0.03 to $0.04. This intrinsic metal value is negligible and has no practical influence on the coin's numismatic market price.
Grading the 1887 Indian Head Cent
Accurate grading is essential for determining an 1887 Indian Head Cent's value, particularly given the dramatic premiums commanded by high-grade specimens. The grading process evaluates both wear from circulation and the quality of the original strike.
Key Areas to Inspect for Wear
Obverse High Points: The word "LIBERTY" on the headdress band is the most critical diagnostic area. In Very Good (VG) grade, approximately three letters of LIBERTY should be visible. Additional high points include the tips of the feathers in the headdress and Liberty's hair details above the eye and ear.
Reverse High Points: Check the high points of the oak leaves within the wreath, the knot in the ribbon at the bottom, and the vertical lines within the shield at the top of the wreath.
Circulation Wear vs. Weak Strike
It is critical to distinguish circulation wear from a weak strike. Coins from the 1880s can be found with soft strikes, particularly on the high points, but may still be uncirculated if they retain original mint luster and show no signs of friction on the highest design elements. Circulation wear appears as a dulling or smoothing of details, while a weak strike shows incomplete design elements with original luster still intact in the fields.
Color Designations for Uncirculated Coins
For uncirculated bronze coins, color preservation is a key component of the grade and market value. The designations describe the extent of original red copper color remaining on the surfaces:
- Brown (BN): The coin has fully oxidized to brown, with little to no original red color remaining. This is the most common designation for older copper coins.
- Red-Brown (RB): A transitional state showing mixed areas of red and brown coloration, typically representing 5-95% original red color.
- Red (RD): At least 95% of the original mint red-orange copper color is preserved. This designation commands the highest premiums and is extremely rare for coins struck in 1887.
💡 Grading Tip
For copper coins like the 1887 Indian Head Cent, never attempt to clean or enhance the color. Any cleaning damages the original surface and drastically reduces both the grade and market value. Natural, original surfaces—even if brown—are always preferred by collectors and grading services.
Strike Quality Variations
1887 Indian Head Cents can exhibit varying strike quality. Well-struck examples show sharp, complete details on all design elements, particularly the feather details in Liberty's headdress and the oak leaf veins on the reverse. Weakly struck examples may show soft or incomplete details in these areas even though they are uncirculated. Strong strike quality adds to a coin's desirability and value within a given grade.
1887 Indian Head Cent Die Varieties
The 1887 Indian Head Cent is home to one of the most significant and collectible die varieties in the entire series: the Doubled Die Obverse cataloged as FS-101 in the Cherrypickers' Guide and as Snow-1 in Rick Snow's specialized reference. This variety is highly sought after and considered one of the top ten most desirable varieties across all Indian Head Cent dates.
1887 Doubled Die Obverse (FS-101 / Snow-1)
The FS-101 variety exhibits strong doubling that is easily visible with minor magnification, making it a popular target for variety hunters or "cherrypickers" who search through common-date coins looking for valuable anomalies.
Attribution Diagnostics
Primary Diagnostic: Pronounced doubling is evident on the letters of "OF AMERICA" on the obverse. The doubling is most prominent and easily seen on the letters 'A', 'M', and 'E'. This doubling appears as a distinct secondary impression of the letters, slightly offset from the primary design.
Secondary Diagnostic: Additional, though less obvious, doubling can be observed in the center of the feathers in Liberty's headdress. This secondary diagnostic helps confirm the variety when the primary doubling is present.
Market Value and Collecting
The FS-101 variety commands a substantial premium over a standard 1887 cent at all grade levels. The value increase is most dramatic in lower, circulated grades, where the variety premium constitutes nearly the entire value of the coin. This dynamic makes the FS-101 an excellent example of how specialized numismatic knowledge can reveal significant value in otherwise common coins.
| Grade | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| G-4 | $40 – $80 |
| VG-8 | $55 – $120 |
| F-12 | $120 – $200 |
| VF-20 | $200 – $300 |
| EF-40 | $500 – $600 |
| AU-50 | $700 – $900 |
| MS-60+ | $1,000+ |
Data sources: PCGS and NGC certified coin listings on eBay, dealer websites (2023-2025). Values are auction-dependent for high-grade specimens.
⚠️ Authentication Recommended
Due to the significant premium commanded by the FS-101 variety, authentication by a reputable third-party grading service (PCGS or NGC) is strongly recommended for any suspected example. Both services will attribute the variety on the holder label, providing certainty and enhancing marketability.
1887 Indian Head Cent Mint Errors
The 1887 Indian Head Cent is known to exist with various fascinating mint errors. The value of an error coin is determined by the type of error, its visual impact and severity, and the grade of the host coin. Major, dramatic errors can be extremely valuable even on low-grade coins.
Multiple-Struck Errors
Multiple-struck errors are among the most dramatic and valuable error types in numismatics. A PCGS-certified G-6 example that was triple-struck, with the third strike 95% off-center, is listed at $1,350. The visual impact of seeing multiple overlapping design impressions makes these errors highly collectible.
Off-Center Strikes
Off-center strikes occur when the planchet (blank coin) is not properly positioned within the collar during striking, resulting in part of the design being struck off the edge of the coin. Value increases with the percentage the coin was struck off-center, especially if the date remains visible. An NGC-certified VG-10 example struck 15% off-center has a retail price of $325.
Clipped Planchets
Clipped planchet errors occur when a coin is struck on a planchet that has a piece missing, usually from the blanking process where the planchets are punched from metal strips. Examples with a single or double curved clip are valued in the $55 to $60 range in circulated grades. The missing section is typically crescent-shaped along the edge of the coin.
Struck-Through Errors
A struck-through error happens when a foreign object or substance—such as grease, cloth, or a stray piece of metal—comes between the die and the planchet during the striking process. This results in a weak or obscured area of the design where the foreign material prevented proper metal flow. Auction results for 1887 cents with struck-through errors range from $95 to $110.
Die Breaks and Cuds
When a piece of the die breaks off, it results in a raised, unstruck area of metal on the coin known as a cud. Smaller breaks are known as die cracks and appear as raised lines on the coin's surface. An 1887 cent with a retained die break on the reverse has a wide valuation range, with listings from $95 to $500 depending on the severity of the break and the overall grade of the coin.
Die Adjustment Strikes
Die adjustment strikes result from the mint setting up the press with insufficient striking pressure, leading to a very weak strike across the entire coin. A PCGS MS-62BN example noted as a possible die adjustment strike is listed for $1,000, suggesting its perceived rarity. A less dramatic example with a weakly struck date is listed for $23.
ℹ️ Error Coin Values
Error coin values can be highly variable and depend on the specific characteristics of each error, current collector demand, and the overall condition of the coin. Major errors on higher-grade coins command the strongest premiums. For significant or unusual errors, professional certification helps establish authenticity and market value.
Authentication and Identifying Problem Coins
While the common 1887 business strike is not a primary target for counterfeiters due to its relatively modest value in most grades, fakes of the valuable FS-101 Doubled Die Obverse variety or high-grade Proof specimens could potentially exist in the marketplace. Additionally, improperly cleaned or damaged coins represent a far more prevalent issue that can severely impact both value and collectibility.
Counterfeit Detection: Signs of a counterfeit coin include pimpled or unusually rough surfaces, mushy or indistinct details (especially in the lettering), incorrect weight, and improper metallic composition. A genuine bronze Indian Head Cent is 95% copper, whereas many fakes are made of nearly pure copper or other alloys that may not match the correct specific gravity. The style and shape of the date numerals are often incorrect on cruder counterfeits. For expensive varieties or high-grade specimens, authentication by PCGS or NGC provides certainty.
Identifying Cleaned Coins: Cleaning is a far more common problem that severely damages a coin's surface and dramatically reduces its value. Telltale signs of cleaning include fine, parallel hairline scratches running across the coin's surface (caused by abrasive cleaning with a brush or cloth), unnatural luster (a coin that is too bright or shiny for its grade), and uneven toning with darker coloration or dirt left in protected areas around lettering and design elements while the open fields are unnaturally bright.
Problem coins that have been cleaned, scratched, corroded, or otherwise damaged will not receive a standard numerical grade from top grading services like PCGS and NGC. These coins are typically avoided by serious collectors due to their impaired value and unpredictable marketability. When purchasing expensive coins, always verify that they are certified by a reputable third-party grading service in original, unaltered holders.
Proper Preservation and Handling
Proper long-term storage and handling are crucial for preserving the condition and value of any numismatic item, especially reactive copper coins like the 1887 Indian Head Cent. Copper naturally oxidizes over time, and improper storage can accelerate this process or introduce contaminants that cause permanent damage.
Storage Recommendations: Coins should be stored in inert, archival-quality holders such as Mylar flips or rigid acrylic capsules that do not contain PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or other harmful plasticizers. PVC can leach onto copper surfaces, causing irreversible green corrosion. For high-value specimens, encapsulation by a reputable third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC offers the best protection, combining an inert holder with professional authentication and grading.
Environmental Factors: To slow the natural toning process and preserve any remaining red color on uncirculated specimens, copper coins should be kept in a cool, dry environment with stable temperature and low humidity. Avoid storage in basements, attics, or other areas prone to humidity fluctuations. Consider using desiccants or climate-controlled storage for particularly valuable collections.
Handling Best Practices: Always handle coins by their edges, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces with bare fingers. Oils, acids, and salts from human skin can leave permanent fingerprints on copper. When viewing coins, work over a soft surface to prevent damage if dropped. Never attempt to clean, polish, or "improve" a coin's appearance—any such intervention will damage the original surface and drastically reduce the coin's value and collectibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1887 Indian Head Cent worth?
The value depends on grade, strike type, and color preservation. Circulated examples range from $3 (G-4) to $40 (AU-50). Uncirculated business strikes range from $90 (MS-62 BN) to over $30,000 for gem red specimens. Proof strikes start at $200 and reach $18,400 for top grades. The FS-101 DDO variety adds significant premiums at all levels.
Does the 1887 Indian Head Cent have a mint mark?
No. All 1887 Indian Head Cents were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and do not carry a mint mark. Mint marks only appear on Indian Head Cents dated 1908-S and 1909-S, where the "S" is located on the reverse below the knot of the wreath.
What is the FS-101 Doubled Die Obverse variety?
The FS-101 is one of the top ten most desirable varieties in the Indian Head Cent series. It shows pronounced doubling on the letters of "OF AMERICA" on the obverse, most visible on the letters A, M, and E. Additional doubling appears in the center of the feathers. This variety commands premiums ranging from $40 in G-4 to over $1,000 in uncirculated grades.
How many 1887 cents were made?
The Philadelphia Mint struck 45,223,523 business strike cents and 2,960 Proof specimens in 1887. While the high business strike mintage makes circulated examples common, the coin becomes an extreme condition rarity in high mint state grades, particularly with original red color.
What's the difference between Red, Red-Brown, and Brown designations?
These color designations describe the preservation of original mint color on uncirculated copper coins. Red (RD) means at least 95% original red-orange copper color remains—this is extremely rare for 1887 dates and commands massive premiums. Red-Brown (RB) shows mixed areas of red and brown (5-95% red). Brown (BN) means the coin has fully oxidized with little original red color. Color dramatically affects value in uncirculated grades.
Should I get my 1887 cent professionally graded?
Professional grading is recommended for uncirculated specimens, proof strikes, the FS-101 DDO variety, and any mint errors. PCGS and NGC certification authenticates the coin, provides an accurate grade, and significantly enhances marketability. For common circulated examples worth under $20, grading costs typically exceed the coin's value and are not economically justified.
How should I care for and store my copper cents?
Never clean copper coins—cleaning destroys original surfaces and drastically reduces value. Store coins in inert holders (Mylar flips or acrylic capsules) free from PVC. Keep in a cool, dry environment with stable temperature and low humidity. Handle only by the edges, never touching the surfaces with bare fingers. For valuable specimens, third-party grading service encapsulation offers optimal long-term protection.
What makes some 1887 cents worth thousands while others are worth just a few dollars?
The 1887 cent demonstrates extreme grade sensitivity. With 45 million struck, circulated examples are common and worth $3 to $40. However, very few coins survived in high mint state condition with original red color preserved. This scarcity creates exponential value increases: MS-65 BN is worth $350, but MS-65 RD jumps to $2,000, and MS-67 RD can exceed $50,000. The low-mintage proofs (2,960 struck) are fundamentally scarcer at all grades.
Are there any valuable errors on 1887 cents?
Yes. Multiple-struck errors can be worth $1,350 or more. Off-center strikes bring $325 for a 15% example. Clipped planchets range from $55 to $60. Die breaks and cuds range from $95 to $500 depending on severity. Die adjustment strikes can reach $1,000 in mint state. Error values depend on the type of error, its visual impact, and the grade of the host coin.
What's the most I should pay for an 1887 Indian Head Cent?
This depends entirely on what you're purchasing. A nice circulated example suitable for a date/mint collection should cost $10 to $25. An entry-level uncirculated example runs $90 to $200. Premium gem specimens can justify $2,000 to $10,000 depending on grade and color. Always buy coins certified by PCGS or NGC when spending significant amounts to ensure authenticity and accurate grading.
Research Methodology and Sources
This comprehensive analysis synthesizes data from multiple authoritative numismatic sources to provide accurate market values and technical information for the 1887 Indian Head Cent. Primary pricing data was compiled from the PCGS CoinFacts and NGC Coin Explorer databases, which aggregate retail pricing from thousands of dealer transactions. Auction records were referenced from PCGS Auction Prices and Stack's Bowers archives. Technical specifications and mintage figures were verified against multiple sources including Littleton Coin Company references.
Die variety information was sourced from dealer listings and attribution guides including references to the Cherrypickers' Guide (FS numbering system) and Rick Snow's variety references. Grading guidance was compiled from NGC's grading standards and established numismatic educational resources. Authentication information was drawn from NGC counterfeit detection articles and specialized variety resources.
All market values represent estimated retail prices as of November 2025 and are subject to change based on market conditions, individual coin quality, and dealer margins. Collectors should note that actual transaction prices may vary from published guides based on eye appeal, market timing, and whether buying or selling. For expensive purchases, always verify coins are certified by PCGS or NGC to ensure authenticity and accurate grading.
