The Sacagawea dollar is one of the most talked-about U.S. coins among collectors. While most versions of the coin are worth only one dollar, a few rare variations have reached astonishing values, with some reports claiming certain editions could be worth up to $2.1 million. Here’s everything you need to know about identifying one of these valuable coins.
What Is the Sacagawea Dollar
The Sacagawea dollar was first issued in the year 2000 by the United States Mint. It features Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who helped guide the Lewis and Clark expedition, on the front, and an eagle in flight on the back. The coin has a golden color due to its manganese brass finish but is not made of real gold.
Why Some Sacagawea Dollars Are Rare
Not every Sacagawea dollar is valuable. The rare versions are special minting errors or promotional editions. Some of the most valuable ones include:
1. The “Cheerios Dollar” (2000-P)
In 2000, a limited number of Sacagawea dollars were placed inside Cheerios cereal boxes as part of a promotion. These early-release coins have a unique detail on the eagle’s tail feathers that sets them apart from the regular ones. Only a few thousand were made, and some collectors have valued them in the hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on condition.
2. The Mule Error Coin
This is one of the rarest minting mistakes in U.S. coin history. It features the obverse of a Washington quarter (with George Washington’s face) and the reverse of the Sacagawea dollar. Only about 20 to 25 of these coins are known to exist, and one has reportedly sold for close to $2 million.
3. The Goodacre Presentation Coins
Sculptor Glenna Goodacre, who designed the Sacagawea dollar, received 5,000 coins as payment. These were specially struck and have a different finish. While not as valuable as the mule error, they still fetch premium prices from collectors.
How to Identify a Valuable Sacagawea Dollar
- Check the Year and Mint Mark – Most valuable pieces are from the year 2000, usually with the “P” mint mark for Philadelphia.
- Look Closely at the Eagle’s Tail Feathers – The Cheerios dollar has sharper and more detailed feathers than the regular design.
- Inspect for Mule Errors – If one side of your coin shows George Washington’s portrait instead of Sacagawea, you might own a rare mule error coin.
- Examine the Condition – Mint-state or uncirculated coins have much higher value. Even small scratches can lower worth significantly.
- Get It Authenticated – If you believe your coin might be valuable, have it verified by a certified grading service such as PCGS or NGC.
What Makes These Coins So Expensive
Rarity, historical importance, and collector demand determine value. A verified mule error coin or an original Cheerios Sacagawea can reach massive prices because so few exist. Coin auctions, museums, and elite collectors compete to own these unique pieces.
Final Thoughts
While most Sacagawea dollars in circulation are worth only their face value, rare varieties like the 2000-P Cheerios edition or the Washington Quarter mule error can fetch incredible sums, even into the million-dollar range. If you happen to own one, keep it safe and get it professionally evaluated—it could be one of the rarest coins in American history.
