1987 Jefferson Nickel Value Guide - Worth $0.05 to $1,800+
Discover your 1987 nickel's worth. Standard issues are face value, but Full Steps grades reach $1,800+ and PR-70 Deep Cameo proofs command $550. Complete price guide for all mints.
The 1987 Jefferson Nickel is worth $0.05 to $1,800+ depending on mint, grade, and strike designation.
- Circulated (all mints): Face value ($0.05)
- Standard Uncirculated: $1 – $60 (limited collector demand)
- Full Steps business strikes: $7 – $1,800+ (condition rarity)
- Proof Deep Cameo: $8 – $550 (PR-70 DCAM commands premium)
- Key error (1987-P on quarter stock): $1,335+
With over 782 million business strikes minted, value is concentrated in Full Steps designations (business strikes) and perfect PR-70 Deep Cameo grades (proofs).
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1987 Jefferson Nickel: Introduction and Value Overview
The 1987 Jefferson Nickel represents a stark contrast in the modern coin market. With a combined business strike mintage exceeding 782 million coins from Philadelphia and Denver, the vast majority of these nickels remain in circulation at face value. Yet within this ocean of common coins lies a niche market for conditional rarities that command prices from $7 to over $1,800.
The 1987 Jefferson Nickel features Felix Schlag's classic design with Jefferson's portrait and Monticello.
Collector value is concentrated in two specific areas: business strikes with the "Full Steps" (FS) designation showing exceptional strike quality, and proof strikes from San Francisco graded PR-70 Deep Cameo. Additionally, a handful of dramatic mint errors—particularly the 1987-P struck on quarter dollar stock—can reach four-figure values. This guide covers identification, grading standards, market values, and preservation strategies for all 1987 Jefferson Nickel varieties.
How to Identify Your 1987 Jefferson Nickel
All 1987 Jefferson Nickels feature the classic Felix Schlag design introduced in 1938. The obverse displays a left-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson with "LIBERTY" along the left rim, "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the right of the portrait, and the date "1987" below. The reverse shows Jefferson's Virginia home, Monticello, with "MONTICELLO" inscribed below the building, "E PLURIBUS UNUM" above, and "FIVE CENTS" along the lower rim with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" wrapping around the top.
Mint marks on all 1987 issues are located on the obverse, in the field to the right of Jefferson's portrait, below the date. Three varieties exist:
- 1987-P (Philadelphia): No mint mark appears. This is the standard for Philadelphia business strikes of this era—the absence of a mint mark indicates Philadelphia production.
- 1987-D (Denver): A small "D" mint mark appears in the designated location.
- 1987-S (San Francisco): An "S" mint mark appears on proof-only strikes sold to collectors as part of the 1987 Proof Set.
Mint marks appear to the right of Jefferson's portrait, below the date. Philadelphia issues have no mint mark.
The 1987-P and 1987-D are business strikes with a satin, frosty finish intended for circulation. The 1987-S is a proof strike with mirror-like fields and, in high-quality examples, frosted design elements creating a cameo effect. The composition for all three is 75% copper and 25% nickel (cupronickel alloy), weighing 5.00 grams with a diameter of 21.20 millimeters and a plain edge.
Strike quality varies dramatically among 1987 business strikes. The steps on Monticello's portico (visible on the reverse) serve as the diagnostic feature for identifying well-struck coins. Most examples show weak, mushy steps due to insufficient striking pressure or worn dies. Coins with fully defined, uninterrupted steps earn the coveted "Full Steps" (FS) designation from grading services, which is the primary driver of value for business strikes.
1987 Jefferson Nickel Value: Complete Price Guide
The 1987 Jefferson Nickel market is divided into distinct segments based on mint, strike type, and quality designations. Standard circulated examples from all mints are worth face value, while the pursuit of high-grade specimens with Full Steps (business strikes) or Deep Cameo finishes (proofs) creates a specialized collector market.
1987-P Philadelphia Business Strike (Standard)
With a mintage of 371,499,481, the 1987-P is extremely common. Circulated examples hold no numismatic premium. The standard, non-Full Steps Mint State market is minimal, with value appearing only at the highest grades where population scarcity creates competition among registry set collectors.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| G-4 to AU-58 | $0.05 - $0.20 |
| MS-60 | $1.00 |
| MS-63 | $2.00 |
| MS-65 | $8.00 |
| MS-67 | $60.00 |
Sources: NGC Price Guide (November 2025), Gainesville Coins
1987-P Philadelphia Business Strike (Full Steps)
This is the primary collectible version of the 1987-P nickel. The Full Steps designation indicates a sharp, complete strike on Monticello's steps—a rarity due to weak striking on most examples. Values climb steadily through MS-66 FS before increasing dramatically at MS-67 FS, where population scarcity drives competition.
Full Steps (FS) examples show complete, uninterrupted steps on Monticello—the primary value driver for business strikes.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| MS-63 FS | $7.00 |
| MS-64 FS | $8.00 |
| MS-65 FS | $14.00 |
| MS-66 FS | $25.00 |
| MS-67 FS | $240.00 |
| MS-68 FS | $1,800+ |
Source: PCGS Price Guide (November 2025)
Auction Record: An MS-68 FS example sold for $1,800(Heritage Auctions, April 25, 2021). The dramatic jump from MS-67 FS to MS-68 FS reflects the extreme rarity of coins combining perfect strike quality with pristine surfaces.
1987-D Denver Business Strike (Standard)
The 1987-D has the highest mintage of any 1987 nickel at 410,590,604 pieces, making it exceptionally common. Like its Philadelphia counterpart, circulated examples are worth face value. The standard Mint State market shows minimal premiums except at the highest grades.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| G-4 to AU-58 | $0.05 - $0.20 |
| MS-60 | $1.00 |
| MS-63 | $5.00 |
| MS-65 | $10.00 |
| MS-67 | $50.00 |
Sources: NGC Price Guide (November 2025), Gainesville Coins
An outlier auction record of $2,291.25 for a non-FS MS-67 exists in PCGS and Gainesville Coins data, but this does not reflect typical retail values. The standard retail market, as shown in the NGC Price Guide, values an MS-67 at approximately $50.
1987-D Denver Business Strike (Full Steps)
The 1987-D is considered scarcer than the 1987-P in top-tier Full Steps grades, particularly at MS-66 and above. NGC's "6FS" (six full steps) designation commands an additional premium over the standard "5FS" or PCGS "FS" designation.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| MS-63 FS | $6.00 |
| MS-64 FS | $10.00 |
| MS-65 FS | $14.00 |
| MS-66 FS | $80.00 |
| MS-67 FS | $500 - $2,500 |
Sources: Gainesville Coins, PCGS Price Guide
Auction Record: An MS-67 FS example sold for $504. The wide value range at MS-67 FS reflects the distinction between PCGS "FS" (5 full steps) and NGC "6FS" (six full steps), with the latter commanding significantly higher premiums. One source notes a top-end value of $2,500 for exceptional MS-67 6FS specimens.
1987-S San Francisco Proof (Deep Cameo)
The 1987-S was a proof-only issue sold exclusively to collectors as part of the 1987 Proof Set, with a mintage of 4,227,728. By 1987, the U.S. Mint's proofing technology was highly advanced, making Deep Cameo (DCAM) or Ultra Cameo (UCAM) finishes the standard. Proofs without this designation are considered substandard and hold minimal value.
Deep Cameo (DCAM) proofs show strong frosted devices against mirror fields—the only collectible finish for 1987-S.
The market is driven entirely by the pursuit of the perfect PR-70 DCAM grade. PR-69 DCAM examples are common and command modest premiums. An important historical note: a widely-cited PCGS auction record of $3,220 from a 2007 Heritage Auctions sale is now obsolete. In the subsequent 18 years, many more 1987 Proof Sets have been submitted for grading, dramatically increasing the known population of PR-70 coins and reducing their rarity premium.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| PR-68 DCAM | $8.00 |
| PR-69 DCAM | $15.00 - $20.00 |
| PR-70 DCAM | $400 - $550 |
Sources: NGC Price Guide (November 2025), PCGS CoinFacts, Retail Data
The NGC Price Guide (November 2025) values an NGC PF-70 Ultra Cameo at $550, while recent retail offerings for the same coin have been observed at $399.95. Raw, ungraded 1987-S Proof coins typically pulled from proof sets retail for approximately $2.00 to $4.00.
Understanding 1987 Jefferson Nickel Grades and Designations
Grading the 1987 Jefferson Nickel requires understanding both the Sheldon numerical scale (1-70) and the specialized designations that drive collector value: Full Steps (FS) for business strikes and Deep Cameo (DCAM) for proofs. These designations are not grades themselves but rather quality indicators awarded by third-party grading services like PCGS and NGC.
📊 Critical Grading Distinction
For 1987 business strikes, a coin graded MS-67 without Full Steps is worth significantly less than a coin graded MS-66 with Full Steps. The designation drives value more than the numerical grade.
Business Strike Grading (1987-P and 1987-D)
Grade progression for business strikes—note increasing sharpness and surface quality.
Circulated Grades (G-4 through AU-58): All circulated 1987 nickels, regardless of grade, are worth face value. These grades are not tracked by the collector market for common-date Jefferson Nickels. Even an AU-58 example showing only minimal wear commands no premium beyond its five-cent face value.
Mint State Grades (MS-60 through MS-70): For business strikes, the market focuses on MS-63 and above, with a sharp distinction between standard strikes and Full Steps examples:
- MS-63 to MS-64: Light contact marks visible under magnification. For non-FS examples, minimal collector interest. For FS examples, entry-level collectible coins valued at $6 to $10.
- MS-65: Few contact marks; above-average eye appeal. Standard examples show modest premiums ($8 to $10). FS examples valued at $14.
- MS-66: Minor imperfections under magnification; strong luster. The gap between standard and FS widens dramatically here: standard MS-66 values are not well-tracked, while MS-66 FS ranges from $25 (1987-P) to $80 (1987-D, particularly 6FS).
- MS-67: Nearly mark-free surfaces; exceptional luster and strike. This is where conditional rarity creates significant value. Standard MS-67 examples: $50 to $60. MS-67 FS examples: $240 (1987-P) to $500-$2,500 (1987-D).
- MS-68 FS: Extremely rare for 1987. Only documented for 1987-P at $1,800+. Represents the pinnacle of business strike quality.
The Full Steps (FS) Designation: This is awarded only to business strikes that show complete, uninterrupted definition on at least five of Monticello's six steps. Most Jefferson Nickels are weakly struck in this area due to insufficient die pressure or worn dies, making FS examples conditionally rare. PCGS uses a binary "FS" designation for coins meeting the five-step standard. NGC differentiates with "5FS" for five full steps and "6FS" for six near-perfect steps, with the latter commanding additional premiums. The steps must not show interruption from strike weakness or contact marks—this requires both a sharp strike and pristine surface preservation.
Proof Strike Grading (1987-S)
Proof coins are manufactured using a specialized process with polished dies and planchets, struck multiple times to create mirror-like fields and, in high-quality examples, frosted design elements. For the 1987-S, the market has effectively established the PR-69 Deep Cameo as the "base" collectible coin, with the entire numismatic chase focused on the perfect PR-70 DCAM grade.
- PR-68 DCAM: Minor imperfections under magnification; strong cameo contrast. Valued at $8—only slightly above raw proof set value.
- PR-69 DCAM: Near-perfect with only minute imperfections. This is a common grade for 1987-S proofs due to the Mint's advanced 1987 proofing process. Valued at $15 to $20.
- PR-70 DCAM: Absolute perfection under magnification. No visible imperfections at 5x magnification. This is the sole chase coin for 1987-S collectors, valued at $400 to $550.
The Deep Cameo (DCAM) / Ultra Cameo (UCAM) Designation: This indicates strong, deeply-frosted devices that contrast sharply with deep, clear, mirrored fields. PCGS uses "DCAM" (Deep Cameo) and NGC uses "UCAM" (Ultra Cameo) for this same designation. For 1987 proofs, a coin lacking this designation—even if graded PR-69—is considered substandard and holds minimal collector value. Standard "PR" or "CAM" (Cameo) examples might bring $10 to $12, barely above raw proof set value.
💡 Grading Tip
When evaluating business strikes, examine Monticello's steps under magnification before considering numerical grade. When evaluating proofs, confirm Deep Cameo contrast before assessing surface quality. These designations are prerequisite to collectible value.
Authentication and Problem Coin Detection
Standard 1987-P and 1987-D nickels are not targets for counterfeiting due to their high mintages and minimal face value. The 1987-S proof is likewise not counterfeited, as the cost of producing a convincing fake proof exceeds any potential profit from common PR-69 DCAM examples. Authentication concerns focus on two areas: detecting altered or cleaned coins that falsely present as uncirculated, and verifying the authenticity of high-value mint errors.
Cleaned coins represent the primary authentication challenge for raw (uncertified) 1987 nickels. Cleaning removes the natural surface characteristics that grading services evaluate, destroying collector value. Signs of cleaning include fine, parallel hairline scratches visible in the coin's fields under magnification, created by abrasive materials or brushing. Cleaned coins often display an unnaturally bright, "washed out" appearance, lacking the natural cartwheel luster of an unmolested Mint State coin. Under a light source, natural luster will "flow" across the surface as the coin is rotated, while cleaned coins show a static, dull sheen.
Cleaned coins show fine parallel hairlines from abrasives—these coins have no stable collector value.
Artificial toning is less common on nickel but can occur. Natural toning on nickel develops as light gray or golden tones over decades. Artificial toning appears as uneven, splotchy patches or unnaturally vibrant colors (electric blues, purples, or greens). These artificial colors will not "cartwheel" with the coin's luster when tilted under light, appearing instead as flat, irregular spots.
For the key error—the 1987-P struck on quarter dollar stock—authentication is straightforward and non-destructive. A genuine example weighs approximately 4.2 grams, compared to the standard nickel weight of 5.0 grams. This error was struck on thinner copper-nickel clad planchet stock intended for quarters. Any 1987-P nickel claiming to be this error but weighing 5.0 grams is not the genuine article. Fewer than a dozen examples are documented, and authentic specimens have sold for over $1,335. Due to the rarity and value of this error, any example should be purchased only if already certified by PCGS or NGC.
For high-grade coins—MS-67 FS or higher, PR-70 DCAM—authentication is a function of accurate grading rather than forgery detection. These coins should only be purchased if already certified and encapsulated ("slabbed") by a reputable third-party grading service such as PCGS or NGC. The services' expertise in detecting subtle surface imperfections, verifying Full Steps or Deep Cameo designations, and maintaining population reports provides essential protection in this high-value segment. Raw coins represented as MS-68 FS or PR-70 DCAM should be viewed with skepticism unless accompanied by a money-back guarantee allowing for professional certification.
Proper Storage and Preservation
Preserving the 1987 Jefferson Nickel's condition is essential for maintaining collector value, particularly for high-grade examples where even minor surface disturbance can cause significant price drops. Cupronickel alloy is more stable than copper or silver but remains vulnerable to chemical damage and physical contact.
Never clean a 1987 nickel, regardless of its appearance. Cleaning removes microscopic surface details that grading services evaluate and leaves distinctive hairline scratches that immediately identify the coin as damaged. Even gentle cleaning with a soft cloth will impart microscopic scratches visible under magnification. Coins with natural toning (light gray or golden tones) should be left as-is—this toning is part of the coin's history and authenticity. A cleaned coin has no stable collector value; a naturally toned coin maintains market acceptance.
Storage must prevent two types of damage: chemical reaction and physical contact. Store uncertified 1987 nickels in inert, archival-safe holders. Suitable options include Mylar (polyester) flips, which are chemically stable, or rigid acrylic capsules that prevent flexing. Avoid polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic flips, as PVC breaks down over time and deposits green, corrosive residue on coin surfaces—this damage is permanent and destroys value. Paper envelopes are acceptable only if they are acid-free and sulfur-free; standard paper contains chemicals that react with metal.
Handle high-grade coins only by their edges, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. Fingerprints deposit oils and acids that etch into the metal over time, creating permanent spots. For Mint State coins approaching MS-66 or higher grades, wear cotton gloves during handling to prevent any finger contact. Store coins in a stable environment away from extreme temperature fluctuations and humidity. Rapid temperature changes can cause condensation, leading to spotting.
For certified coins already encapsulated by PCGS or NGC, the holder provides comprehensive protection. These coins can be stored in standard album pages or boxes without additional protection. The sonic-sealed holders prevent environmental contamination while allowing full visibility. Avoid breaking open certified holders except for submission to another grading service, as re-holdering voids the original guarantee and may result in a different grade upon resubmission.
Die Varieties: Limited Collector Market
The 1987 Jefferson Nickel series includes numerous cataloged die varieties, including Doubled Die Obverses (DDO), Doubled Die Reverses (DDR), and Repunched Mint Marks (RPM). These varieties are documented in specialist resources such as the CONECA (Combined Organizations of Numismatic Error Collectors of America) master lists, the Wexler die variety files, and the Variety Vista listings compiled by Dr. James Wiles.
Known varieties include:
1987-P Varieties
- Multiple DDO (Doubled Die Obverse) varieties showing doubling in Jefferson's portrait, lettering, or date
- Multiple DDR (Doubled Die Reverse) varieties showing doubling in Monticello, lettering, or denomination
1987-D Varieties
- Multiple DDO varieties
- Multiple DDR varieties
- RPM (Repunched Mint Mark) varieties showing evidence of the "D" mint mark being punched multiple times in slightly different positions
1987-S Varieties
- Multiple DDO varieties on proof strikes
⚠️ Value Reality Check
Despite being cataloged, these varieties carry no significant market premium. The complete absence of certified examples in major auction archives indicates minimal collector demand outside specialist circles.
Per the research standard for this analysis, no reliable public pricing is available from authoritative sources such as the PCGS Price Guide, NGC Price Guide, or major auction archives (Heritage Auctions, Stack's Bowers) for any 1987-P, 1987-D, or 1987-S minor die variety. The only available data comes from non-authoritative online marketplace listings for raw, ungraded coins, with sellers requesting $30 to $65. However, the complete absence of TPG-certified (third-party graded) examples in major auction records indicates that actual realized values, if any, are minimal.
The 1987 die varieties exist within a small community of die-variety specialists who collect these coins for study rather than investment. For mainstream Jefferson Nickel collectors, the Full Steps designation on business strikes or the Deep Cameo designation on proofs represents the focus of numismatic pursuit, not minor die doubling. Collectors interested in these varieties should consult the Variety Vista DDO listings for detailed diagnostics and attribution information, but should not expect significant premiums when buying or selling these coins.
Mint Errors: From Common to Extraordinary
Unlike minor die varieties, major mint errors from 1987 can command significant collector premiums. The value of an error coin depends on the error type, its visual drama, and its rarity. For 1987 Jefferson Nickels, the error market is divided into two distinct categories: a single key error of extreme rarity and high value, and a range of common error types with modest premiums.
Key Error: 1987-P Struck on Copper-Nickel Clad Quarter Dollar Stock
This is the most significant and valuable error in the 1987 Jefferson Nickel series. It represents an "off-metal" and "wrong planchet stock" error, where a nickel die pair struck a planchet blank intended for quarter dollar production.
The rare 1987-P struck on quarter stock weighs approximately 4.2 grams instead of the standard 5.0 grams.
Rarity: Extremely rare. Fewer than a dozen examples are documented in the numismatic literature. This error occurred when copper-nickel clad planchet stock intended for quarters (which is thinner than nickel stock) was accidentally fed into the nickel striking press at the Philadelphia Mint.
Diagnostics and Authentication: Identification is definitive and relies on a simple, non-destructive test—weighing the coin. A genuine 1987-P struck on quarter stock weighs approximately 4.2 grams, compared to the standard nickel weight of 5.0 grams. This weight difference is substantial and easily verified with a gram scale accurate to one decimal place. Any 1987-P nickel weighing 5.0 grams is not this error. The coin also appears slightly different in hand, as the thinner quarter stock results in a coin that feels less substantial, though this subjective assessment should never replace precise weight measurement.
Value: A PCGS-certified AU-53 example sold for $1,335.21. An additional price reference of $1,754 for an "AU-58" example appears in multiple price guides, though this likely represents the same coin or a similar transaction. The value of this error is tied to its extreme rarity rather than its condition—even circulated examples command four-figure prices. Given the value and scarcity, any claimed example should be purchased only if already certified by PCGS or NGC, with weight verification performed before purchasing a raw example.
Common Mint Errors
Several error types occur with relative frequency across the 1987-P and 1987-D issues. Their value depends on the severity and visual appeal of the error, not the date itself. The 1987 date holds no particular premium for these error types—similar errors from other common-date Jefferson Nickels trade in the same value ranges.
Common mint errors include off-center strikes, broadstrikes, and die cuds—each with modest collector value.
| Error Type | Severity | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Broadstrike | Minor (uncollared) | $15 - $25 |
| Off-Center Strike | 10-20% off-center | $10 - $20 |
| Off-Center Strike | 40-60% (date & mint visible) | $30 - $60 |
| Lamination Error | Minor peel | $15 - $30 |
| Lamination Error | Major (retained/folded) | $50 - $85 |
| Die Cud | Medium size | $20 - $55 |
Sources: Online retail and auction listings
Error Diagnostics:
- Broadstrike: The coin appears "spread out" and flat, lacking a rim. This occurs when the coin is struck outside the collar that normally constrains the metal and creates the rim.
- Off-Center Strike: The design is missing from one side, with a blank planchet area visible. Errors showing 10-20% off-center misalignment are common. Errors showing 40-60% off-center with the date and mint mark still visible are more desirable and command higher premiums.
- Lamination Error: A small flake or peel appears in the coin's metal. This occurs due to impurities or gas bubbles in the planchet stock. Minor peeling brings modest premiums. Major laminations where a large piece of the planchet is detached or folded over are more dramatic and valuable.
- Die Cud: A raised "blob" of metal appears on the coin, typically at the rim. This occurs when a piece of the die breaks off, leaving a void that fills with metal during striking. Medium-sized cuds that don't obliterate major design elements are the most common.
Error coins should be preserved in their as-struck condition. Never attempt to clean or "improve" an error—any alteration destroys authenticity and value. For errors valued above $100, certification by PCGS or NGC provides market credibility and protection against counterfeits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1987 Jefferson Nickel worth?
Most 1987 nickels are worth face value ($0.05). Circulated examples from all three mints have no collector premium. Uncirculated value depends entirely on grade and special designations: business strikes need the "Full Steps" designation to be collectible (ranging from $7 for MS-63 FS to $1,800+ for MS-68 FS), while proofs need "Deep Cameo" finish and top grades (PR-70 DCAM reaches $400-$550). Standard Mint State coins without Full Steps are worth only $1-$60 even in high grades.
How do I identify the mint mark on a 1987 nickel?
Look on the obverse (front) in the field to the right of Jefferson's portrait, below the date. A "D" indicates Denver, an "S" indicates San Francisco (proof-only), and no mint mark indicates Philadelphia. Use magnification if needed, as mint marks can be small on worn coins. Philadelphia coins have no mint mark—the absence of any letter in this location confirms Philadelphia origin.
What is the "Full Steps" designation and why does it matter?
"Full Steps" (FS) is awarded by grading services to business strike nickels showing complete, uninterrupted definition on at least five of Monticello's six steps on the reverse. Most nickels are weakly struck in this area, making FS examples conditionally rare. PCGS uses "FS" for five steps; NGC differentiates with "5FS" and "6FS." This designation is the primary value driver—a MS-66 FS coin is worth significantly more than a MS-67 without Full Steps.
Are 1987 proof nickels valuable?
The 1987-S proof nickel is valuable only in the perfect PR-70 Deep Cameo grade, worth $400-$550. Common PR-69 DCAM examples are worth only $15-$20. By 1987, the Mint's proofing process was highly advanced, making Deep Cameo finishes standard—proofs lacking this designation are worth only $2-$10. The market focuses entirely on the chase for perfect PR-70 DCAM specimens.
Should I get my 1987 nickel professionally graded?
Submit only if your coin appears to be MS-66 or higher (business strike) or PR-69/70 (proof) and shows the required designation (Full Steps for business, Deep Cameo for proof). Grading costs $20-$50+ per coin, so the coin must have significant potential value. Circulated coins, standard Mint State coins below MS-65, and proofs below PR-68 should not be submitted—grading costs exceed their value. Focus grading dollars on coins showing exceptional strike quality and pristine surfaces.
How can I tell if my 1987 nickel has been cleaned?
Examine the coin's fields (flat background areas) under magnification and strong light. Cleaned coins show fine, parallel hairline scratches created by abrasive materials. They may appear unnaturally bright or "washed out" compared to original luster. Natural luster will "cartwheel" across the surface when rotated under light; cleaned coins show a static, dull sheen. Cleaned coins have no stable collector value, even if high grade.
What is the 1987-P quarter planchet error worth?
The 1987-P struck on quarter dollar stock is the key error for this year, worth over $1,335. Fewer than a dozen examples are documented. Authentic examples weigh approximately 4.2 grams (standard nickels weigh 5.0 grams). Due to extreme rarity and high value, purchase only certified examples with verified weight. This error should not be confused with common broadstrikes or other planchet errors—the weight difference is definitive.
Do 1987 die varieties have value?
Despite being cataloged (DDO, DDR, RPM varieties), 1987 die varieties carry no significant market premium. No reliable pricing exists from authoritative sources like PCGS or NGC Price Guides. Online marketplace listings show sellers asking $30-$65 for raw examples, but the complete absence of certified examples in major auction archives indicates minimal actual demand. Mainstream collectors focus on Full Steps (business strikes) or Deep Cameo (proofs), not minor die doubling.
How should I store my uncirculated 1987 nickels?
Use inert, archival-safe holders such as Mylar flips or rigid acrylic capsules. Avoid PVC plastic flips, which deposit corrosive green residue. Handle only by edges, never touching surfaces. For high-grade coins (MS-66+), wear cotton gloves. Store in stable environment away from extreme temperature fluctuations and humidity. Never clean coins—cleaning destroys collector value by removing surface details and adding hairline scratches. Certified coins in PCGS or NGC holders need no additional protection.
Why are some 1987-D nickels more valuable than 1987-P?
In top Full Steps grades (MS-66 FS and higher), the 1987-D appears to be scarcer than the 1987-P despite having a higher mintage. This creates a value premium: MS-66 FS 1987-D coins are worth $80 compared to $25 for 1987-P. The difference is more pronounced at MS-67 FS, where 1987-D examples bring $500-$2,500 versus $240 for 1987-P. NGC's "6FS" (six full steps) designation for 1987-D commands additional premiums over standard "5FS" or PCGS "FS" coins.
Price Guide Methodology and Market Disclaimer
This analysis synthesizes data from multiple authoritative numismatic sources to provide current market values for 1987 Jefferson Nickels. Primary sources include the PCGS Price Guide (November 2025), NGC Price Guide (November 2025), auction records from Heritage Auctions and other major numismatic auction houses, and retail pricing data from established dealers including Gainesville Coins. Die variety information is drawn from specialist resources including the Variety Vista database compiled by Dr. James Wiles, as well as CONECA and Wexler attribution systems.
Values represent typical retail asking prices for certified examples in the grades specified. Actual transaction prices may vary based on market conditions, individual coin quality within a grade, and the buyer-seller relationship. Auction results are included where available to provide documented market history, though auction premiums may not reflect typical retail values. The coin market is subject to fluctuation based on precious metal prices, collector demand, and economic conditions. Historical auction records, particularly those from 2007-2010, may not reflect current values due to population growth from increased submissions.
This guide is provided for educational and informational purposes. Readers should conduct independent research and consult with professional numismatists before making significant purchases or sales. Grading and authentication should be performed by recognized third-party services (PCGS, NGC, ANACS, ICG) for high-value coins. The authors make no guarantees regarding future price performance or investment returns.
