Rare Sacagawea Coins: Types, Value, and Collecting Tips

Not only is the rare Sacagawea coin one of the most beautiful US coins ever produced, but it can also be highly expensive. Even though these coins are only worth $1 as inscribed on them, their actual value could be much higher. Six figures can be found for some of the most valued Sacagawea dollar coins.

With their detailed depiction and ties to American history, rare Sacagawea coins were released in 2000 and are highly prized by coin collectors. Specifically, these coins honor the legacy of Sacagawea, a Shoshone Nation member who served as an important guide for Lewis and Clark during their 1804–06 expedition.

This dollar coin was the first dollar to have a manganese brass exterior layer, which gave it a golden hue.

Look for this beauty in your spare change; its distinctive gold coloring and exquisite design already make it stand out. For additional details about rare Sacagawea coins, including their salient characteristics and significant influence in the coin-collecting community, continue reading.

     Key Features of Sacagawea Coins

Obverse Design

The obverse of the Golden Dollar features a three-quarter profile of Sacagawea, also known as heads. Unlike the custom of numismatics, she faces directly into the holder's eyes. The big, dark eyes that Shoshone folklore credited to Sacagawea were created by obverse artist Glenna Goodacre. Randy'L He-dow Teton, a Shoshone college student now, served as Goodacre's model.

Sacagawea is carrying her young son, Jean Baptiste, on her back. Sacagawea gave birth to Jean Baptiste early in the Lewis and Clark expedition, having been six months pregnant when she set out.

Reverse Design

The chosen reverse, which was made to match the obverse, has an eagle in flight surrounded by 17 stars. Every state in the Union at the time of the 1804 Lewis and Clark expedition is represented by the 17 stars.

Metal Composition

     Rare Sacagawea Coins: Types and Varieties

2000-P Cheerios Dollar

There are rarer Sacagawea coins than others. For instance, the U.S. Mint and Cheerios, the breakfast cereal, collaborated to create just 5,500 2000-P Cheerios Sacagawea dollar coins. Certain Cheerios cereal boxes came with these coins. Examining them with a magnifying glass is a joy because of their immaculate state and the fine detailing on the eagle's tail feathers. Moreover, very few of these coins have been located in reality. It's worthwhile to have one of these valued if you own one. In 2008, one sold for $34,500.

2000-P Goodacre Presentation

The United States Mint gave Glenna Goodacre a $5,000 commission for her artistic rendition of Sacagawea. Goodacre asked that her payment be sent to her Santa Fe, New Mexico, studio in Sacagawea dollars. The coins given to her were different from the dollars minted for general circulation. The US Mint struck these coins on polished planchets, giving them a "Specimen" or proof-like look. In 2013, a Goodacre specimen graded SP69 was sold for $5,288.

2000-P Wounded Eagle Variety

A rare and valuable Sacagawea coin, the 2000 P Wounded Eagle Die Variety would make a wonderful addition to any collection. The die gouge used to create the wounded eagle die variant of the Sacagawea dollar coin gives the impression that the bird's breast is being punctured by a spear or an arrow.

To recognize this coin, examine the reverse of the Sacagawea dollar coin for a line that passes through the eagle's breast, entering close to the center of the chest and leaving near the right wing. Only roughly 100 of these coins are known to exist, but there's always a chance that more could appear. Be careful to check your 2000 P Sacagawea dollars!

A specimen of the Wounded Eagle Sacagawea coin, classed MS68, brought $5,160 at auction in 2017.

     Factors that Determine Rarity and Value

1) Minting Errors and Varieties

The scarcity and worth of Sacagawea coins are raised by the following typical coin minting faults.

• Double Dies: These happen when the mint strikes the coin twice with a steel stamp or die, giving letters and images a double appearance.
• Date Misplacement: Some coins have no date on them. This uncommon mistake frequently raises the coin's value.
• Edge Lettering: This happens when the date and mint mark are printed on the coin's edge rather than its face. Edge lettering is usually found on presidential dollars, but this particular example is extremely precious because it has only ever been discovered on one Sacagawea coin.
• Mules: These coins have designs on them that aren't usually combined. Because they are the product of human error rather than machine error, mules are extremely valuable.

2) Scarcity and Demand

Like most collector's artifacts, rare Sacagawea coins increase in value with their rarity. For instance, in certain years, the US Mint only produced Sacagawea dollar coins as collector's goods; in other years, they were never used in circulation. The rarest of these coins can fetch up to six figures in value due to their scarcity and, therefore, higher demand. Even the most widely circulated ones, nevertheless, are comparatively uncommon and are therefore valued at least $1.05. This is a small premium over their $1.00 face value.

3) Condition and Grading

Many of the Sacagawea dollar coins exhibit clear signs of aging since the coin's minting was discontinued in 2008. Therefore, the value of a Sacagawea dollar coin increases when it is in good condition. For instance, the fact that every coin contained in Cheerios boxes was newly minted contributed to the appeal of the Cheerios Sacagawea dollar. This undoubtedly added to the coin's high value.

     Collecting and Investing in Sacagawea Coins

Here are some pointers to help you if you decide to start collecting Sacagawea coins:

• Gain Information: Gaining knowledge about the Sacagawea coin's history and variations will improve your collection and make it easier for you to identify rarities.

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• Condition: A coin's condition can often determine its worth. When searching for the best value, look for coins that are proof or uncirculated.

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• Have Patience: It takes time to compile a collection of rare coins. To locate those one-of-a-kind items, keep an eye out for trustworthy sellers and auctions.

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• Make Connections with Other Collectors: Participating in coin-collecting forums and going to coin shows can offer priceless knowledge and chances to improve your collection.

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• Safeguard Your Investment: Keeping your Sacagawea coins in good condition depends on proper storage. To avoid deterioration and discoloration over time, use albums or holders that are acid-free.

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• Keep up with Market Trends: Demand, scarcity, and market changes can all affect the value of Sacagawea coins. See reliable numismatic publications and resources on a regular basis to keep informed and choose the right time to buy or sell.