One of the most sought-after modern U.S. coins, a Sacagawea dollar once sold for a staggering $84,000 due to a combination of rare and dramatic minting errors. Here’s what made that particular coin so special:
Key Features of the $84,000 Sacagawea Dollar:
- Major Misaligned Die Error: Struck 30–50% off-center
- Double Struck: Clearly overlapping design elements
- Mint State Condition: Graded MS-65 or higher
- 2000-P Cheerios Dollar: Rare reverse design with enhanced eagle tail feathers
Most Valuable Sacagawea Dollar Errors
| Error Type | Description | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Cheerios Dollar | Enhanced eagle tail feathers (2000-P only) | $5,000 – $25,000 |
| Major Off-Center | 30%+ off-center strike | $1,000 – $84,000 |
| Double Denomination | Struck as a dollar over a dime | $10,000+ |
| Broken Die Cracks | Visible raised die cracks across the surface | $500 – $5,000 |
| Missing Edge Lettering | No “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the edge | $300 – $3,000 |
How to Identify Valuable Sacagawea Dollar Errors
Follow these steps to spot potential treasure in your coin collection:
1. Look for the Cheerios Dollar Variety
- Inspect the eagle’s tail feathers on the reverse.
- Cheerios version: Defined, separated feathers
- Regular version: Smoother, “blob-like” feathers
- Only found on 2000-P coins distributed in Cheerios cereal boxes.
2. Check for Strike Errors
- Off-Center Strikes: Parts of the design missing or misaligned
- Double Strikes: Overlapping or ghosted images
- Weak Strikes: Incomplete or faint details
3. Inspect the Edge Lettering
- Run your fingernail around the edge of the coin.
- A normal coin should have raised lettering.
- A smooth edge could indicate a rare, valuable error.
4. Test the Weight and Composition
- Standard weight: 8.1 grams
- Composition: Manganese-brass
- A significantly different weight may suggest a wrong planchet or minting error.
Where to Sell Rare Sacagawea Dollars
Best Selling Platforms by Value:
- $1,000 and up: Heritage Auctions – Professional auction house
- $300–$1,000: eBay – Auction-style listings preferred
- Under $300: Local coin dealers or shows
Selling Tips:
- Use clear, well-lit photos
- Highlight the error or unique feature
- Compare to recent sales for accurate pricing
FAQs About Sacagawea Dollar Errors
Q: Are all Sacagawea dollars valuable?
A: No, most are worth face value. Only specific errors or rare varieties command high prices.
Q: How many Cheerios dollars were made?
A: Estimates suggest between 5,000 and 10,000 were distributed in 2000.
Q: Where can I find valuable Sacagawea coins?
A: Search through bank rolls, especially from the years 2000 to 2008.
Leave a Reply