1987 Lincoln Memorial Cent Value Guide

The 1987 Lincoln Memorial Cent is a significant piece of modern American numismatics, representing the post-1982 transition to a copper-plated zinc composition. Collectors prize high-grade specimens of this year that showcase the Frank Gasparro-designed Lincoln Memorial reverse in pristine condition.

What affects the value of 1987 Lincoln Memorial Cent?

• The presence of a 'D' mint mark or the absence of one (Philadelphia) can influence rarity in specific high-grade tiers.
• The coin's numerical grade, particularly those achieving Mint State (MS) 67 or higher, significantly increases market value.
• Surface preservation, including the presence of original mint luster and the absence of zinc rot or plating blisters.
• The presence of rare minting errors, such as double dies or off-center strikes, which command premiums over the standard $0.01 face value.

How to Identify 1987 Lincoln Memorial Cent?

• Verify the 1987 date on the obverse and the 'D' mint mark for Denver or no mint mark for Philadelphia.
• Check for the copper-plated zinc composition, which replaced the 95% copper alloy used prior to 1982.
• Examine the reverse for the Lincoln Memorial design, which was originally introduced in 1959 to mark Lincoln's 150th birthday.
• Look for the initials 'VDB' at the base of Lincoln's shoulder, signifying the original designer Victor David Brenner.

History of 1987 Lincoln Memorial Cent

The Lincoln Cent, initially designed by Victor David Brenner, was first issued in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. The reverse design was changed in 1959 from the Wheat Ears to the Lincoln Memorial to mark Lincoln's 150th birthday. This particular coin, from 1987, is part of the later Memorial series which saw a change in composition in 1982 from predominantly copper to copper-plated zinc due to rising copper prices.