1987 1C, BN (Regular Strike)

The 1987 1C, BN (Regular Strike) Lincoln Cent holds a modest yet noteworthy place in numismatics. Struck in Philadelphia, this coin is part of the long-running Lincoln cent series started in 1909. As a common coin within the large series, it typically doesn't attract high collector value, but certain factors such as condition, mint errors, or unique provenance could elevate its status. From a numismatist perspective, the 1987 1C, BN is historically significant as a representative of late 20th-century minting techniques involving large-scale production. The "BN" designation indicates its natural brown color, a result of its copper composition aging over time. This coin serves as an excellent example for those studying the transition from full copper composition to the copper-plated zinc planchets that started in 1982. Mintage figures for the 1987 1C are substantial, with approximately 4,682,466,931 coins produced. As such, its rarity is relatively low in circulated conditions. However, in uncirculated grades or those graded above MS65, the value can increase slightly, drawing interest from collectors seeking near-perfect specimens. PCGS CoinFacts assigns the coin number 3030 to this particular regular strike Lincoln cent. Collectors looking to assess the current market value should be aware that circulated examples typically hold a nominal value. However, auction results from specialized numismatic auctions occasionally reveal sales of premium conditions and error coins reaching sales beyond baseline expectations. For instance, higher-graded coins could fetch modest sums in auctions compared to typical circulated examples. In particular, high-grade specimens have garnered more attention, occasionally realizing prices between $20 and $30, depending on demand and auction house prominence. Online resources like Stack's Bowers and major auction websites indicate ongoing market interest in quality Lincoln cents, providing a platform where buyers actively seek specific mint-state pieces, even from common mintage years like 1987. CoinFacts nods to the broad mintage yet highlights key information for those enthusiastic about understanding mint variations, presentation, and subsequent grading distinctions in late 20th-century minting. For modern coin enthusiasts, the 1987 1C, BN Lincoln Cent offers a detailed entry point into the era's monetary production, illustrating significant changes in material composition and minting technology that would lay the groundwork for today's circulating coins.