A dollar coin is a coin that has a face value of one United States dollar.
- Face Value: One U.S. Dollar.
- Composition: Dollar coins have been minted in various materials throughout history, including gold, silver, and base metals. Current circulating dollar coins, like the Sacagawea and Presidential Dollars, are made from a copper core clad in manganese brass.
- Size & Design: They generally have a golden color and a diameter of 1.043 inches (26.49 mm). The design varies depending on the coin series, often featuring historical figures or national symbols.
- Early History: The first U.S. dollar coins were minted in 1794. The early designs included the Flowing Hair, Draped Bust, and Seated Liberty dollars.
- Later Developments: Dollar coins have undergone several design changes and metal compositions over time, including the Eisenhower dollar, Susan B. Anthony dollar, and Sacagawea dollar.
- Limited Circulation: Despite efforts to promote their use, dollar coins have not been widely popular for everyday transactions compared to the dollar bill in the United States. As a result, the U.S. Mint suspended production of dollar coins for general circulation in 2011, focusing primarily on collector versions since then.
- Modern Programs: In recent years, the U.S. Mint has released dollar coins as part of the Presidential Dollar, Native American Dollar, and American Innovation Dollar programs.
- Collectibles: Many dollar coins, especially older silver dollars or rarer varieties, are highly sought after by collectors.
- Commemorative Coins: The U.S. Mint also produces commemorative dollar coins to honor important events and individuals in American history.
- International Use: While not widely used in the U.S. for transactions, the Sacagawea dollar has found popularity in other countries, particularly those where the U.S. dollar is an official currency, such as El Salvador, Ecuador, and Panama.
What is the 1 dollar coin called?
I can help with that. United States Dollar coin. Obverse: Sacagawea with her son Jean Baptiste Charbonneau, US national motto, year and Liberty on top. Reverse: Eagle in flight, country name, face value and E pluribus unum (Out of many, one) Coin popularly known as the Sacagawea dollar.