The Sacagawea dollar, first introduced in 2000, remains one of the most fascinating modern U.S. coins. Known for its golden color and smooth edge, it honors Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who guided Lewis and Clark. While most Sacagawea dollars are worth only face value, certain mint marks, grades, and rare errors can make them highly valuable. As we move into 2026, collectors are paying close attention to these coins, and understanding their value chart is essential for identifying hidden treasures.
History of the Sacagawea Dollar
The Sacagawea dollar was created to replace the Susan B. Anthony dollar, which had been unpopular due to its similarity in size to the quarter. The new coin featured a distinctive golden hue and smooth edge. Glenna Goodacre designed the obverse, showing Sacagawea carrying her infant son, Jean Baptiste. The reverse originally displayed a soaring eagle, later replaced by rotating Native American themes under the Native American $1 Coin Program.
Mint Marks and Their Significance
Mint marks play a crucial role in determining value.
- P: Philadelphia Mint, produced the majority of circulation strikes.
- D: Denver Mint, also struck circulation coins.
- S: San Francisco Mint, responsible for proof coins.
- Special issues: Certain presentation coins and promotional releases carry unique finishes.
Collectors often seek proof coins from San Francisco or limited presentation strikes, which are more valuable than standard circulation issues.
Rare Errors and Varieties
Errors are what make some Sacagawea dollars worth thousands.
2000-P Cheerios Dollar
Distributed in cereal boxes as a promotion, these coins feature enhanced eagle tail feathers. They are extremely rare and can sell for $5,000 or more.
2000-P Goodacre Presentation Dollar
Artist Glenna Goodacre received 5,000 specially struck coins as payment. These coins have a distinctive finish and are valued between $500 and $1,000.
2000-P Mule Error
One of the most famous modern coin errors, this coin was struck with a Washington quarter obverse paired with the Sacagawea reverse. Only a handful exist, and they can sell for $100,000 or more.
Other Errors
Off‑center strikes, clipped planchets, and proof die varieties also exist, with values ranging from hundreds to thousands depending on rarity and condition.
Value Chart 2026
| Coin Type | Description | Approximate Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Circulation | Common issue | $1 – $2 |
| 2000-P Cheerios Dollar | Enhanced eagle tail feathers | $5,000 – $25,000 |
| 2000-P Goodacre Dollar | Special presentation strike | $500 – $1,000 |
| 2000-P Mule Error | Quarter obverse with dollar reverse | $50,000 – $100,000+ |
| Proof Coins (S Mint) | Collector issues | $5 – $50 |
| Silver Proof Issues | Limited edition | $25 – $200 |
| Error Coins | Off‑center, clipped planchet, doubled dies | $100 – $5,000 |
Grades and Condition
The grade of a coin is one of the most important factors in determining value.
- Good (G‑4): Heavily worn, worth only face value.
- Fine (F‑12): Moderate wear, slightly collectible.
- Extremely Fine (EF‑40): Light wear, sharper details, valued higher.
- About Uncirculated (AU‑50): Slight wear, strong luster, desirable to collectors.
- Mint State (MS‑63): Uncirculated, full detail, premium value.
- Mint State (MS‑65+): Gem quality, rare, commands top prices.
Collecting Tips
- Always check the reverse design carefully for Cheerios dollars.
- Look for unusual pairings of obverse and reverse designs, which may indicate mule errors.
- Proof and presentation coins are often more valuable than circulation strikes.
- Store coins in protective holders to preserve condition.
- Consider professional grading to authenticate rare varieties.
Key Highlights
- The Sacagawea dollar was introduced in 2000 and continues to attract collectors.
- Rare varieties include Cheerios dollars, Goodacre presentation coins, and mule errors.
- Mule errors are among the most valuable modern coins, worth over $100,000.
- Mint marks and grades play a major role in determining value.
- Proof and silver issues are especially prized by collectors.
Final Words
The Sacagawea dollar is more than just a modern coin; it is a piece of history that honors Native American heritage and American exploration. While most examples are worth only face value, rare varieties and errors can be worth thousands, making them exciting finds for collectors. As 2026 brings renewed interest in these coins, understanding mint marks, grades, and error varieties is essential. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced numismatist, the Sacagawea dollar offers both historical significance and the thrill of discovering hidden treasures.