I Tested the 1987 Proof Set Worth and Here’s What I Found

This set earns its ranking because it represents the most reliable baseline for Standard Collector Value. It provides the quintessential experience of receiving a crisp, sealed plastic holder directly from the San Francisco Mint.

In my opinion, this is the safest entry point for anyone starting their collection. You get the full lineup of standard circulating denominations without the extra cost of precious metals. The primary limitation is that the plastic lenses can occasionally develop a hazy film over time, which affects the visual appeal of the coins.

This set is best for the serious numismatist who prioritizes intrinsic metal content and historical significance over simple assembly. Including the Constitution commemorative silver dollar, it offers a level of prestige that standard sets simply cannot match.

I consider this the gold standard for 1987 collections. The inclusion of 90 percent silver makes it a dual-purpose asset, serving both as a collectible and a minor bullion play. While the packaging is larger and slightly more cumbersome to store, the added weight and detail of the silver dollar more than make up for the bulk.

An interesting feature of this set is that it represents the final year of a specific design era, making it a unique bridge to later, more modern releases. It serves as a perfect foundation for Basic Set Assembly because it remains highly accessible.

I find the uniformity of these sets quite charming for those building a chronological collection. You get a clean, sharp strike that defines the proof quality standard. Be aware that the outer cardboard sleeves can show minor wear, but this rarely impacts the integrity of the coins tucked inside.

The most common complaint regarding this set involves the perception that you are paying a premium for a plastic slab rather than the coins themselves. However, when you look at the PF-67 grade, you realize you are paying for professional verification that the coins are free from common manufacturing flaws.

In my view, this is an excellent choice for those who do not want to worry about future environmental damage to their coins. By having them professionally encapsulated, the investment grade is locked in. It is a more expensive path, but it removes the uncertainty often associated with raw sets.

Compared to the PF-67 slabbed set above, this version is significantly more affordable and accessible for the Casual Hobbyist. It lacks the professional certification, but it maintains the same crisp, mirror-like finish that collectors seek.

I think this is the most honest representation of a standard hobbyist purchase. It is not trying to be a high-end investment piece, but rather a clean slice of history. The only real downside is the lack of protection against long-term chemical reactions if the storage environment is not climate-controlled.

The popularity of this set stems from its aesthetic appeal, as the American Flag packaging turns a standard coin set into a patriotic memento. It is an excellent choice for gifts, though you should remember it is essentially a standard proof set dressed up for a specific occasion.

In my judgment, the value here is in the presentation. While the coins themselves are identical to those found in standard sets, the effort put into the display makes it a thoughtful choice for a birthday or anniversary. Just avoid paying a massive markup for the packaging alone if you are purely interested in the numismatic value.