Currently, there are a few different types of US dollar coins in circulation, each with distinct designs:
- Sacagawea Dollars: These coins feature Sacagawea, the Shoshone guide who aided the Lewis and Clark Expedition, on the obverse (heads side).
- Native American $1 Coins: These coins retain the Sacagawea obverse design, but the reverse (tails side) changes each year to highlight the contributions of Native American tribes and individuals to the development and history of the United States.
- Presidential $1 Coins: Issued between 2007 and 2016, these coins feature portraits of deceased former US Presidents on the obverse, [according to the U.S. Mint Coin Classroom] . The reverse depicts the Statue of Liberty.
- American Innovation $1 Coins: This series features the Statue of Liberty on the obverse, and different reverse designs celebrating inventions and innovations from each state, territory, and the District of Columbia.
Therefore, depending on the specific type of dollar coin, the individuals depicted can vary.
Who is on the gold dollar coins?
The Golden Dollar’s obverse, or heads, has Sacagawea portrayed in three-quarter profile. In a departure from numismatic tradition, she looks straight at the holder. Glenna Goodacre, the artist of the obverse, included the large, dark eyes attributed to Sacagawea in Shoshone legends.
Why is Sacagawea on the Golden dollar?
From my experience, Launched in 2000, the Sacagawea dollar coin has an obverse honoring Sacagawea, the young Shoshone guide and interpreter who helped Lewis and Clark find a western route to the Pacific Ocean. She is depicted with her infant son, Jean Baptiste, who accompanied her on the expedition.
Are $1 gold coins actually gold?
Are Gold Dollar Coins Real Gold? Yes! Issued from 1849-1889, the American one dollar gold coin weighed exactly 1.672 grams and contained 1.505 grams of gold.