A List Of All 1987 nickels Worth more than face value

1. The 1987 Nickel: Basic Facts

The 1987 nickel, produced by the United States Mint, features the traditional design that has been in circulation since 1938.

On the obverse (front) of the coin, there is a portrait of Thomas Jefferson, designed by artist John Reich. On the reverse (back), there is an image of Monticello, Jefferson’s Virginia estate, designed by Felix Schlag. The coin is made of 75% copper and 25% nickel, with a total weight of 5 grams.

In 1987, two primary varieties of nickels were minted: one at the Philadelphia Mint (with no mint mark) and the other at the Denver Mint (with a “D” mint mark).

A relatively large number of these coins were produced, making most 1987 nickels quite common in terms of availability. However, the value of some of these nickels can exceed five cents, depending on factors like condition, rarity, and minting errors.

2. Factors Affecting the Value of a 1987 Nickel

To understand why certain 1987 nickels are worth more than face value, it’s essential to consider the factors that affect their market price:

• Condition and Grade: The condition of a coin plays a pivotal role in its value. Coins that are in mint condition (uncirculated or proof quality) are worth more than those that show signs of wear and tear.
• Coin grading is done on a scale from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Mint State), and higher-grade coins will fetch higher prices.
• Mint Mark and Type: The mint mark (or lack of one) helps determine where the coin was minted. The 1987 nickel came in two mint marks—Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (“D”).
• While the minting location does not significantly impact the value of most 1987 nickels, certain mints can occasionally produce coins with slight variations that are more highly sought after by collectors.
• Special Editions or Proof Coins: The U.S. Mint produces proof coins specifically for collectors, which are struck with higher-quality dies and typically have a mirror-like finish. If you happen to have a 1987 proof nickel, it could be worth more than a standard circulated coin.
• Minting Errors: Some 1987 nickels may have been struck with errors during the minting process. These errors can make the coin rare and valuable to collectors.
• For example, coins with misstrikes, double dies, off-center strikes, or other unusual features can be worth much more than a standard nickel.

3. 1987 Nickels Worth More Than Face Value

Let’s take a closer look at the types of 1987 nickels that could potentially be worth more than their face value:

a) Uncirculated 1987 Nickels

Uncirculated coins are those that have never been used in everyday transactions and show no signs of wear.

A 1987 nickel in uncirculated condition can be worth more than face value, especially if it’s graded high. Uncirculated 1987 nickels can be found in either the Philadelphia or Denver varieties. Depending on the grade, they can be worth anywhere from 10 to 50 cents or more.

• MS-65 (Mint State 65): If a 1987 nickel is graded MS-65 (a relatively high grade), it can be worth between $1 and $2.
• MS-67 (Mint State 67): Higher-quality coins, such as those graded MS-67, can fetch between $3 and $5, or even more depending on the demand and the individual coin’s quality.

b) 1987 Proof Nickels

Proof coins are specially minted for collectors and have a much finer finish than regular circulation coins.

These coins are struck multiple times using specially prepared dies to create a mirror-like surface with sharp, crisp details. The 1987 proof nickel is part of the U.S. Mint’s annual proof sets and is generally worth more than the standard circulating coins.

A 1987 proof nickel in pristine condition can be worth around $3 to $5. However, if it’s part of a complete proof set, the value of the set as a whole could be higher, with proof sets often fetching around $30 to $50, depending on the overall quality and condition of the set.

c) 1987 Nickels with Minting Errors

Minting errors can drastically increase the value of a coin, as they are typically rare and sought after by collectors. Common minting errors found on 1987 nickels include:

• Double Die Errors: A double die occurs when the die used to stamp the coin is misaligned, resulting in a doubled image. While this error is relatively rare in 1987 nickels, a double die error can increase a coin’s value significantly.
• Such a coin could be worth anywhere from $5 to $50, depending on the severity of the error and the demand from collectors.
• Off-Center Strikes: If a coin is not properly centered during the minting process, it may result in an off-center strike. For example, a 1987 nickel struck off-center can be worth anywhere from $10 to $100, depending on how far off-center the strike is.
• Clipped Planchet: A clipped planchet error occurs when a coin is partially cut off during the minting process, resulting in a mis-shaped coin. If you find a 1987 nickel with this error, it may be worth between $5 and $25, depending on the extent of the clip.
• Die Cracks or Cuds: Die cracks or cuds (raised areas of metal) on the coin’s surface can be another indicator of minting errors.
• These types of errors are generally less valuable than off-center strikes or double dies but can still bring in a premium. A 1987 nickel with a die crack or cud might be worth a few dollars, depending on its size and visibility.

d) Coin Sets or Special Editions Featuring the 1987 Nickel

Sometimes, the value of a 1987 nickel is increased because it is part of a special edition, such as a coin set or a limited-release series.

If your 1987 nickel was purchased as part of a set, such as a U.S. Mint proof set or an uncirculated coin set, it could be worth more than the individual coin alone.

For example, a complete 1987 U.S. Mint proof set that contains the 1987 nickel, along with other denominations, could be worth $30 or more in excellent condition, depending on the set’s packaging and condition.

4. Where to Buy or Sell 1987 Nickels Worth More Than Face Value

If you think you have a valuable 1987 nickel or a coin set containing one, there are several places to buy or sell:

• Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Etsy, and other auction sites are popular platforms for buying and selling collectible coins. You can search for listings of 1987 nickels to get an idea of current prices and auction trends.
• Coin Dealers and Shops: Local coin dealers and shops are another good option for purchasing or selling your 1987 nickel. Many coin dealers have extensive knowledge of coins and can help you appraise and potentially sell your coins.
• Coin Shows and Conventions: Coin shows are excellent places to find buyers and sellers for your collectible coins. These events allow you to meet with other collectors and dealers, inspect the quality of coins in person, and negotiate prices.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the most valuable 1987 nickel? A: The most valuable 1987 nickels are those with minting errors, such as double die errors, off-center strikes, or clipped planchets. Coins in perfect uncirculated or proof condition can also fetch higher prices.

Q: How do I know if my 1987 nickel is a proof coin? A: Proof coins have a mirror-like finish and are generally shinier and more detailed than regular circulation coins. If the coin is part of a proof set, it will typically come in a special case with a certificate of authenticity.

Q: Are all 1987 nickels worth more than face value? A: No, only certain 1987 nickels in excellent condition, with minting errors, or those that are part of special sets, are worth more than face value. Most 1987 nickels are worth just five cents.

Q: How can I sell my 1987 nickel? A: You can sell your 1987 nickel through online auction sites, local coin dealers, or at coin shows and conventions. It’s always a good idea to get an appraisal or have the coin graded by a professional before selling.

Conclusion

While most 1987 nickels are worth their face value of five cents, certain variations—such as uncirculated or proof coins, as well as those with minting errors—can be worth significantly more.

If you have a 1987 nickel that you believe may be worth more, be sure to assess its condition, look for any errors, and consider whether it is part of a special set. Collecting