Most Valuable Sacagawea: The Sacagawea dollar is one of the most fascinating coins in modern American numismatics. First introduced in 2000, it was designed to honor Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who played a crucial role in guiding the Lewis and Clark expedition. While most Sacagawea dollars are worth only their face value, certain rare varieties and special issues have become highly valuable, with some examples fetching prices in the thousands and even millions. This guide explains the history of the Sacagawea dollar, the factors that determine its value, and the rare coins that collectors dream of finding in the 2026 market.
The following table highlights the most valuable Sacagawea dollar varieties and their estimated market values based on 2026 auction data:
| Rare Sacagawea Variety | Key Identification Feature | Estimated Value (2026) |
| 2000-P Mule Error | Washington Quarter Obverse / Sacagawea Reverse | $125,000 – $200,000+ |
| 2000-P Cheerios Dollar | Enhanced Eagle Tail Feathers (Prototype) | $5,000 – $25,000+ |
| 2000-W Gold Sacagawea | Struck in 22kt Gold (Space Flown) | $120,000 – $550,000+ |
| 2000-P Goodacre Presentation | Specially Struck Finish (Limited to 5,000) | $500 – $5,200 |
| 2000-P Wounded Eagle | Sharp Die Gouge Through Eagle’s Chest | $100 – $7,200 |
| 2000 Lincoln Cent Mule | Sacagawea Dollar Struck on Cent Planchet | $10,000 – $35,000 |
The Origins 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 and color to the quarter. The new coin was designed with a golden appearance, achieved by using a manganese brass composition. Glenna Goodacre designed the obverse, featuring Sacagawea carrying her infant son Jean Baptiste, while the reverse depicted a soaring eagle. The coin was intended to circulate widely, but like its predecessor, it struggled to gain acceptance in everyday commerce, leading to billions being stored in mint vaults.
Circulation and Collector Appeal
Although the Sacagawea dollar did not achieve widespread use in daily transactions, it quickly became popular among collectors. The coin’s unique design and historical significance made it appealing, and the U.S. Mint produced special proof and collector editions. Over time, certain varieties and errors emerged, creating a market for rare examples that could be worth far more than their face value. In 2026, the demand for high-grade specimens from the initial 2000 release remains at an all-time high.
The Cheerios Dollar
One of the most famous varieties is the so-called Cheerios dollar. In 1999, the U.S. Mint partnered with General Mills to promote the new coin by including 5,500 examples in boxes of Cheerios cereal. These coins were later discovered to have a prototype reverse design with enhanced eagle tail feathers—showing clear, detailed lines rather than the smooth feathers found on circulation strikes. Because of their rarity and historical importance, Cheerios dollars are worth thousands of dollars today, with pristine MS68 examples often selling for over $25,000.
The Goodacre Presentation Dollars
Another rare variety is the Goodacre presentation dollar. Glenna Goodacre, the coin’s designer, was paid her commission in 5,000 specially struck Sacagawea dollars. These coins were produced with a unique finish—somewhat similar to a proof strike but with a distinctive matte appearance—and were never released into circulation. Collectors prize them for their connection to the artist and their limited mintage. In 2026, certified SP68 examples have reached auction prices near $5,000.
Minting Errors and Varieties
Minting errors often create valuable coins, and the Sacagawea dollar is no exception. Examples include double strikes, off-center strikes, and coins struck on the wrong planchet, such as the Lincoln Cent or Susan B. Anthony planchets. These errors are rare and highly sought after by collectors. One notable variety is the “Wounded Eagle,” which features a sharp die gouge across the eagle’s breast. Depending on the type and severity of the error, values can range from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars.
The 2000 Sacagawea Dollar Mule
Perhaps the most famous and valuable Sacagawea dollar variety is the 2000 mule coin. A mule is a coin struck with mismatched dies, and in this case, the obverse of a Washington statehood quarter was paired with the reverse of a Sacagawea dollar. Fewer than 20 examples of these coins are known to exist. In January 2024, a PCGS MS66 specimen sold for a record $194,062. Some experts suggest that in the 2026 market, a perfect MS67 example could approach a quarter-million-dollar valuation.
Proof and Special Issues
The U.S. Mint has produced proof versions of the Sacagawea dollar for collectors, featuring sharp details and mirror-like surfaces. These coins are more valuable than circulation strikes, especially in PR70 “Deep Cameo” grades. Special issues, such as the 2000-W gold dollars that flew on the Space Shuttle Columbia, carry even higher premiums. In 2026, the 25th-anniversary gold and silver editions have sparked a massive resurgence in the secondary market for all special Sacagawea issues.
The Native American Dollar Series
In 2009, the Sacagawea dollar was redesigned as part of the Native American dollar series. The obverse continued to feature Sacagawea, while the reverse changed annually to highlight contributions of Native Americans to U.S. history. These coins added diversity to the series and increased collector interest. Redesigns such as the 2009 “Three Sisters” agriculture and the 2011 “Wampanoag Treaty” are particularly popular. Low mintages for several years in the 2010s have made uncirculated rolls increasingly valuable.
Factors That Determine Value
The value of a Sacagawea dollar depends on several factors. Rarity is the most important, with limited mintage varieties and errors commanding the highest prices. Condition also plays a critical role; since these coins were made of a soft manganese brass, they tarnish and scratch easily. Historical significance and collector demand in 2026 further influence value, with variety-attributions like those found in the “PCGS Set Registry” driving prices for top-tier specimens.
Why Some Could Be Worth Millions
While most Sacagawea dollars are worth only a dollar, rare varieties such as the Cheerios dollar and the 2000 mule can reach extraordinary values. The legendary $21 million figure often cited in recent reports likely refers to the combined value of the rarest known specimens or unique experimental prototypes. For collectors, the thrill lies in the possibility of discovering one of these rare treasures in an old cereal box promotion or an unsearched mint roll, where a single mistake can turn a dollar into a fortune.
Final Verdict
The Sacagawea dollar is a coin that blends history, artistry, and rarity. Although it never achieved widespread use in commerce, it has become a cornerstone of modern numismatics. From the subtle detail of the Cheerios eagle to the dramatic “mule” error, certain varieties have achieved legendary status. The coin’s connection to Sacagawea and Native American heritage adds deep cultural significance, making it more than just currency. As we move through 2026, these rare coins continue to serve as a reminder that immense treasures are often hidden in plain sight.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational purposes only. Coin values are based on 2026 auction trends and professional price guides. Market prices fluctuate significantly based on condition, rarity, and current collector demand. We strongly recommend consulting with a certified numismatist or professional grading service such as PCGS or NGC before buying, selling, or valuing high-value coins.
