The 1987–88 John Player Special Cup was the 17th edition of England's premier rugby union cup competition.

Harlequins won the competition, for the first time, defeating Bristol in the final at Twickenham Stadium.

[1] The competition was sponsored by John Player cigarettes.

[p 1] [1] The competition was sponsored, for the last time, by John Player and the prize money was £125,000 (an increase of £15,000).

Both finalists received £3,750 each and in thirteen years of sponsorship over £1 million has been provided.