A simple dollar coin could make you a millionaire. The Sacagawea dollar, first minted in 2000, is usually worth just $1, but a rare minting error has turned one into a $2.3 million treasure. Known as the 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar Mule, this coin has a unique mistake that makes it one of the most valuable modern U.S. coins. Collectors are buzzing about this golden coin, and it might still be hiding in your pocket or change jar.
A Coin with a Historic Design
The Sacagawea dollar was introduced in 2000 to replace the Susan B. Anthony dollar. It honors Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who helped guide the Lewis and Clark expedition, with her image and her son, Jean Baptiste, on the front. The back shows an eagle soaring, designed to symbolize peace. Made with a manganese-brass alloy, the coin has a shiny golden look. While millions were made, a rare error from the Philadelphia Mint in 2000 created a coin that collectors dream of finding.
The Million-Dollar Mistake
The valuable Sacagawea dollar is called a “mule” because it combines two designs that don’t belong together. This error happened when the front of a Washington quarter, showing George Washington, was paired with the back of a Sacagawea dollar, marked “ONE DOLLAR.” Only about 20 of these coins are known to exist, making them incredibly rare. One in pristine condition sold for $2.3 million at a private auction in 2025, setting a record for modern U.S. coins. The coin’s perfect state and unique error drive its huge value.
| Error Feature | Value Impact |
|---|---|
| Mule Error (Quarter/Sacagawea) | $1M-$2.3M |
| Pristine Condition (MS-66+) | $500,000+ |
How to Spot This Rare Coin
You can check if you have a valuable Sacagawea dollar with a few simple steps. Look at the front; if it shows George Washington instead of Sacagawea, it’s a mule error. The back should have the Sacagawea eagle design with “ONE DOLLAR.” Check the size; it should match a quarter’s dimensions, about 24.26 mm wide and 5.67 grams. Look for a “P” mint mark, showing it was made in Philadelphia. If the coin looks brand new with no wear, it’s more likely to be valuable. Use a magnifying glass to check details and get it appraised by experts like PCGS or NGC.
| Coin Trait | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Obverse | George Washington, not Sacagawea |
| Size/Weight | 24.26 mm, 5.67 g (quarter size) |
Where to Sell Your Treasure
If you think you’ve found a Sacagawea mule, don’t spend it! Take it to a coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication. You can sell it through auction houses like Heritage Auctions or online platforms like eBay, but only after it’s verified. Coin shows are also a great place to meet collectors who might pay top dollar. Store the coin in a protective holder and avoid cleaning it, as even small scratches can lower its value. Be cautious of scams and work with trusted buyers.
A Hunt Worth Taking
The Sacagawea dollar mule is a collector’s dream, turning pocket change into a fortune. With only a handful known, finding one is like hitting the lottery. Check your coins, especially those from 2000, for odd designs or markings. A quick look could reveal a $2.3 million treasure hiding in plain sight. So, dig through your change, and you might just find a piece of history that changes your life.