Sacagawea Dollar The Sacagawea dollar, introduced in 2000, is more than a circulating coin. It honors Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who guided Lewis and Clark, and has become a fascinating collectible series. While millions were struck for everyday use, a handful of rare issues, errors, and promotional releases have elevated the coin into the spotlight of modern numismatics.
Sacagawea Dollar Key Information Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Years of Issue | 2000–2008; Native American Series 2009–Present (rarely seen in circulation after 2011) |
| Designer | Obverse: Glenna Goodacre; Reverse (2000–2008): Thomas D. Rogers Sr. |
| Composition | Core: 100% Copper; Cladding: 77% Copper, 12% Zinc, 7% Manganese, 4% Nickel |
| Weight | 8.1 grams |
| Diameter | 26.5 mm |
| Edge | Smooth (2000–2008); Lettered (2009–Present) |
| Mintmarks | P (Philadelphia), D (Denver), W (West Point special strikes), S (San Francisco proofs) |
| Key Rarities | Cheerios Dollar (1999), Mule Error (2000-P), 2000-W Burnished Coin, Proof Errors |
The 1999 Cheerios Promotional Dollar
Before its official release, General Mills partnered with the U.S. Mint to distribute Sacagawea dollars in Cheerios cereal boxes. A small number of these coins featured enhanced tail feathers on the eagle reverse, a prototype design later changed. With fewer than 10,000 believed to exist, these Cheerios dollars are highly prized, often selling for tens of thousands of dollars in top condition.
The 2000-P Mule Error
One of the most famous modern coin errors, the mule combines the obverse of a Statehood quarter with the reverse of a Sacagawea dollar. Only a handful are known, making it one of the rarest and most valuable U.S. coins of the 21st century, often commanding six-figure prices.
The 2000-W Burnished Reverse Proof
The West Point Mint produced a limited number of Sacagawea dollars with a burnished or reverse proof finish. These coins feature frosted fields and polished design elements, creating a striking contrast. Their scarcity and unique appearance make them highly collectible.
Experimental Planchet Strikes
During early production, the Mint tested different planchet compositions. Some coins struck on these experimental blanks entered circulation. They can appear slightly different in color or texture, and authenticated examples carry strong premiums due to their rarity.
Proof Coin Errors
Even proof coins, designed for perfection, sometimes show dramatic mistakes. Double-strikes, missing elements, or misaligned designs have been found in proof sets, particularly in 2007. These errors are rare and highly desirable among collectors.
2009 Native American Dollar Varieties
In 2009, the reverse design began changing annually to honor Native American contributions. Some varieties, such as the “knob on corn” reverse, are sought after by specialists. Early years of the series are gaining collector attention.
Missing Edge-Lettering Errors
Starting in 2009, Sacagawea dollars included edge inscriptions. Some coins left the Mint without lettering, creating a dramatic and easily identifiable error. These missing-edge coins are rare and valuable finds.
Final Verdict
The Sacagawea dollar has transformed from a circulating coin into a modern collectible classic. While most examples remain common, rare issues such as the Cheerios dollar, Mule Error, and burnished proofs can be worth thousands. The series offers opportunities for both casual collectors and serious numismatists, proving that modern coins can hold extraordinary value.
Disclaimer
This guide is for educational purposes only. Coin values are estimates and may change based on rarity, condition, grading, and market demand. For accurate pricing and authentication, consult certified numismatists or professional grading services before buying or selling collectible coins.
