Price Guide for 1987 Nickel Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1987 Nickel variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
1987-D Nickel (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 - $144.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 - $179.95
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 - $36.00
1987-P Nickel (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $540.50 - $1,754.00Uncirculated: $8.00 - $138.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1.50 - $1,700.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 - $140.00
1987-P Nickel, FS (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 - $1,800.00
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eBayUncirculated: $2.25 - $223.88
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 - $240.00
1987-D Nickel, FS (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $8.00 - $2,291.25
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 - $1,187.49
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 - $2,500.00
1987-S Nickel, DCAM (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 - $3,220.00
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eBayCirculated: $9.99 - $17.00Uncirculated: $0.76 - $818.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $3.00Uncirculated: $3.00 - $115.00
Design and Specifications of the 1987 Nickel
The 1987 Jefferson Nickel continued the long-standing design that had been in use since 1938. This year marked the 49th year of the Jefferson Nickel series, which remained largely unchanged since its introduction. The coin reflects the ongoing tribute to Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, and his historic home, Monticello.
| Weight | 5.00 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.21 mm |
| Mint Marks | P, D |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Thomas Jefferson facing left, designed by Felix Schlag |
| Reverse Design | Monticello, Jefferson's home, designed by Felix Schlag |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1987 Nickels, particularly for circulation strikes. While these coins are common in circulated grades, specimens in pristine uncirculated condition (MS65 and above) can command a premium. The coin's relatively soft composition makes it susceptible to bag marks and contact marks, making high-grade examples more challenging to find.
For proof coins, cameo and deep cameo contrasts between the frosted devices and mirrored fields can significantly enhance value. Perfect PR70 examples, free from any imperfections, are highly sought after by collectors.
Mintage: 371,499,481
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, but scarce in gem (MS65+) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, typical for modern circulating coinage
Mintage: 730,602,568
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, but scarce in gem (MS65+) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, typical for modern circulating coinage
Mintage: 4,227,728
Rarity Scale: Common for proofs
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in most proof grades, but scarce in perfect (PR70) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low to Moderate, mainly for collectors
Strike quality is an important factor for 1987 Nickels. Well-struck coins with full details, particularly on Monticello's steps on the reverse, are more desirable. Luster also plays a role, with coins exhibiting bright, cartwheel luster being more valuable than those with dull or muted surfaces.
While not typically known for attractive toning, nicely toned examples can command a premium if the colors are appealing and natural. Additionally, error coins, such as off-center strikes or doubled dies (although rare for this year), can be valuable to specialized collectors.
It's worth noting that the 1987 Nickel, being a modern issue, derives most of its value from condition rarity rather than absolute scarcity. As such, professional grading can significantly impact the coin's market value, especially for high-grade examples.
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