While most Sacagawea dollars are only worth their face value of $1, certain rare errors and varieties can fetch significant prices among collectors, reaching thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars.
Here’s a breakdown of factors affecting Sacagawea coin values:
- Circulated Sacagawea Dollars: The vast majority of Sacagawea coins you find in circulation are worth just $1.
- Error Coins: Sacagawea coins with minting errors are highly sought after and significantly more valuable. Some notable examples include:
– “Muled” Sacagawea Dollars: These coins have the Sacagawea design on one side but the obverse of a U.S. quarter-dollar (featuring George Washington) on the other. Only 18 are known to exist, making them exceptionally valuable, with one selling for $144,000 in 2022.
– “Cheerios” Sacagawea Dollars: These were part of a promotion in 2000 where some early Sacagawea dollars were included in Cheerios cereal boxes. They have a more detailed tail feather design on the eagle on the reverse, distinguishing them from later versions. They are rare, with only about 60-70 in existence, and their value can range from $5,000 to $25,000 or more depending on their condition and grade.
– Other error types: Missing letters, doubled die errors, and other unique minting mistakes can also increase the value.
- Condition: Regardless of errors, the condition of a Sacagawea coin is a major factor determining its value. Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition (higher grades) are generally worth more than those that have been heavily circulated and show signs of wear. For instance, a 2009 Sacagawea coin might be worth $1 in average condition but over $650 in exceptional condition (MS68+).
- Proof Coins: Proof Sacagawea dollars, minted specifically for collectors, are also worth more than their face value, with values varying based on their quality and date, possibly ranging from $2 to $5 and upwards depending on their condition.
It’s important to remember that most Sacagawea dollars will not be worth more than $1. However, carefully inspecting your coins for unique errors or features and seeking an expert opinion from a reputable coin dealer or authenticator can help determine if you have a rare and valuable Sacagawea dollar.
