A Lucky Find in an Old Wallet
Imagine finding a coin worth thousands in your everyday wallet. That’s exactly what happened when someone discovered a rare 2000 Sacagawea dollar with the “Cheerios Reverse” tucked away among their change. This coin, now valued at $18,500, has sparked excitement among coin collectors and everyday people alike. The Sacagawea dollar, first released in 2000, was meant to replace the Susan B. Anthony dollar, but a special version tied to a cereal promotion has made it a collector’s treasure.
The Cheerios Promotion Story
Back in 1999, the U.S. Mint teamed up with General Mills to promote the new Sacagawea dollar. They placed 5,500 of these coins in Cheerios cereal boxes, with one in every 2,000 boxes getting a dollar coin alongside a 2000 Lincoln penny. Years later, collectors noticed some of these coins had a unique reverse design with extra detailed eagle tail feathers. Known as the “Cheerios Reverse,” these coins are rare pattern coins, with only about 60 to 70 confirmed to exist, making them highly valuable.
Coin Type | Number Made | Estimated Value |
---|---|---|
Cheerios Reverse | 5,500 | $5,000-$18,500 |
Regular 2000 Sacagawea | Over 767M | $1-$4 |
Why This Coin Is Worth So Much
The Cheerios Reverse coin stands out because of its unique eagle tail feathers, which have sharper, more defined details than the regular 2000 Sacagawea dollars. This difference came from early test dies used before the final design was simplified for mass production. The coin’s rarity, with fewer than 80 verified examples, and its link to the quirky Cheerios promotion drive its value. A top-grade Cheerios dollar in MS-68 condition sold for $29,900 at auction in 2008, showing its potential worth.
How to Spot a Cheerios Dollar
Identifying a Cheerios Sacagawea dollar takes a careful eye. Check for the 2000 date and a “P” mint mark for Philadelphia. Then, look at the eagle’s tail feathers on the back. The Cheerios version has bold, crisscrossed feather details, especially on the central feather, compared to smoother feathers on regular coins. Use a magnifying glass to see the fine lines. If you think you have one, get it checked by a grading service like PCGS or NGC to confirm its authenticity and value.
Feature | What to Look For | Why It Matters |
---|---|---|
Mint Mark | P (Philadelphia) | Only Cheerios coins have it |
Tail Feathers | Bold, detailed lines | Shows it’s the rare version |
Where to Find These Rare Coins
You might still find a Cheerios dollar in unexpected places like old coin jars, piggy banks, or even circulation. Check flea markets, estate sales, or online marketplaces, but be cautious of fakes. Coins still in their original Cheerios packaging are especially prized. If you own a 2000 Sacagawea dollar, inspect it closely. Getting it graded by a professional service can boost its value, especially if it’s in great condition. Coin clubs or local dealers can also help you learn more.
The Thrill of the Hunt
The discovery of a Cheerios Sacagawea dollar shows that valuable treasures can hide in plain sight. With only a small number of these coins accounted for, collectors and casual finders are still searching. The coin’s history, tied to a fun cereal promotion and a unique design, makes it a favorite among numismatists. Whether you’re digging through change or exploring a family collection, a $18,500 coin could be waiting. Check your wallets, you might be the next lucky finder