Generally, Sacagawea coins are intended to have the date and mint mark on the obverse (front) of the coin . However, starting in 2009, Sacagawea dollars began having the date and mint mark inscribed on the edge of the coin.
Therefore, a Sacagawea coin with edge lettering is generally a normal and expected feature for those minted in 2009 and later , and its value will likely be its face value of $1, [according to Reddit].
However, there are rare cases where edge lettering can significantly increase a Sacagawea coin’s value, particularly if it’s considered an error coin:
- Missing Edge Lettering: A Sacagawea dollar from 2009 or later that is missing the expected edge lettering is considered an error and can be quite valuable. Examples of prices on eBay range from $15 to $75 for circulated or uncertified coins, while graded coins might fetch higher sums. In 2009, a few thousand pieces were accidentally produced without the edge inscription, [according to GOVMINT].
- Sacagawea dollar with Presidential dollar edge lettering: This is an extremely rare and valuable error. Only one 2007-D Sacagawea dollar with the Presidential dollar edge lettering is known to exist. It was mistakenly struck with the edge inscription intended for Presidential dollars, [according to Coin World] . This coin was discovered in 2007 and sold for $17,161.10 in a 2012 auction.
- Weak Edge Lettering: A 2009-D Sacagawea coin with “ERRORE” weak edge lettering was listed for sale on eBay as a unique error.
To determine the value of your specific Sacagawea coin with edge lettering, you should:
- Identify the year: The year is inscribed on the edge of the coin, [according to Quora].
- Examine the edge lettering closely: Ensure it is present and correctly inscribed (year, mint mark, and “E PLURIBUS UNUM”).
- Look for any anomalies or missing elements: Check for weak or missing lettering.
- Consider the coin’s condition: Coins in better condition (uncirculated with minimal wear) are generally more valuable.
- Consult a professional coin grader or pricing guide: For a definitive assessment, especially if you suspect you have a rare error coin, consider seeking the opinion of a professional coin grading service like PCGS or NGC.
In summary: A Sacagawea dollar from 2009 or later with edge lettering is likely worth its face value unless it exhibits a specific error, such as missing edge lettering or incorrect edge inscription. If you believe you have an error coin, seeking professional evaluation is recommended to accurately determine its value.
Which Sacagawea coins have edge lettering?
Somehow, a 2007 Sacagawea dollar received edge lettering intended for presidential dollars. Edge lettering was not used on the Sacagawea Dollar (a.k.a. Native American Dollars) until 2009.
How do you know if you have a rare Sacagawea coin?
I can help with that. To determine if your Sacagawea coin is rare, check for minting errors, special finishes, unique die variations, and research mintage numbers.