The Sacagawea Dollar, introduced in 2000, is a significant coin in U.S. history. Designed to honor Sacagawea, the Shoshone interpreter and guide who played a vital role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition, this dollar features a unique golden hue and a distinctive design. It has been in circulation for over two decades and continues to be a favorite among collectors.
Historical Background
The Sacagawea Dollar replaced the unpopular Susan B. Anthony Dollar. While the Anthony Dollar suffered from being easily mistaken for a quarter due to its size and color, the Sacagawea Dollar sought to address these issues with a gold-colored manganese-brass composition.
The coin’s obverse, designed by Glenna Goodacre, features Sacagawea carrying her infant son, Jean Baptiste. The reverse design from 2000 to 2008, created by Thomas D. Rogers Sr., depicts a soaring eagle. In 2009, the reverse design began rotating annually under the Native American $1 Coin Program, highlighting Native American contributions to U.S. history.
Design Details
Obverse:
The obverse of the Sacagawea Dollar portrays Sacagawea with her child, symbolizing her courage and dedication. The inscription “LIBERTY” appears at the top, and “IN GOD WE TRUST” is displayed to the right. The date and mint mark were moved to the coin’s edge starting in 2009.
Reverse (2000-2008):
The original reverse features a bald eagle in flight, surrounded by 17 stars, representing the states in the Union during the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
Reverse (2009-Present):
Since 2009, the reverse design has changed yearly, showcasing Native American achievements, such as agriculture, trade, and military contributions. Notable designs include the Three Sisters Agriculture in 2009 and Sequoyah’s writing system in 2017.
Key Varieties and Collectibility
2000-P and 2000-D Business Strikes:
The initial release of Sacagawea Dollars in 2000 had high mintages, making these coins common and affordable for collectors.
2000 Cheerios Dollar:
To promote the new dollar, the U.S. Mint included 5,500 Sacagawea Dollars in boxes of Cheerios cereal. These coins, known as Cheerios Dollars, are unique because of enhanced details on the eagle’s tail feathers, making them highly collectible and valuable.
2000-W Glenna Goodacre Presentation Dollars:
The U.S. Mint struck 5,000 coins at the West Point Mint to pay Glenna Goodacre for her obverse design. These coins, specially burnished and packaged, are highly sought after.
Native American $1 Coins (2009-Present):
Each year’s unique reverse design makes this part of the series exciting for collectors. The low mintages of some designs, particularly in the later years, add to their collectibility.
Grading and Value
Sacagawea Dollars are widely available in circulated condition, and most can be acquired for face value. Uncirculated and proof examples are worth more, especially for early years and special varieties like the Cheerios Dollar or Glenna Goodacre Presentation Dollars. Collectors should look for coins with sharp strikes, minimal wear, and strong luster.
Interesting Facts
- The Sacagawea Dollar was the first U.S. coin minted with a manganese-brass alloy, giving it its golden appearance.
- It was featured prominently in space, as coins were flown on the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1999.
- Despite its unique design, the Sacagawea Dollar has struggled in circulation due to the continued use of paper $1 bills.
Why Collect Sacagawea Dollars?
The Sacagawea Dollar is a fascinating coin series for collectors due to its evolving designs and rich cultural significance. Whether you’re drawn to the original eagle reverse, the Cheerios Dollar, or the later Native American reverses, there’s something for every numismatist in this series.
FAQs
What is the Cheerios Dollar, and why is it valuable?
The Cheerios Dollar is a 2000 Sacagawea Dollar distributed in Cheerios cereal boxes. It features enhanced eagle tail feathers, making it rare and highly collectible.
Why did the Sacagawea Dollar change its reverse design in 2009?
The reverse design began rotating annually under the Native American $1 Coin Program to honor Native American contributions to U.S. history.
Are Sacagawea Dollars still in circulation?
Yes, they are still produced for collectors, though they are rarely seen in general circulation.