A simple coin in your pocket could be worth a fortune. The Sacagawea dollar, first minted in 2000, is a familiar sight for many Americans. Most of these golden-colored coins are worth just a dollar, but a rare version has collectors buzzing. One specific Sacagawea dollar, known as the “Cheerios Dollar,” could fetch up to $1.4 million at auction. This coin’s unique story and rarity make it a hidden gem for anyone lucky enough to find one.
The Cheerios Dollar Story
In 2000, the U.S. Mint partnered with General Mills for a promotion. They placed 5,500 Sacagawea dollars in Cheerios cereal boxes as a way to introduce the new coin. These coins were special because they were struck with a different design than the standard version. The Cheerios Dollar has a bolder eagle tail on the back, known as the “Enhanced Tail Feathers” design. This small detail makes it stand out. Only a handful of these coins have been found, driving their value sky-high.
Why It’s So Valuable
The rarity of the Cheerios Dollar is what makes it so special. Out of millions of Sacagawea dollars minted, only about 70 are confirmed to be from the Cheerios promotion. Collectors love coins with unique stories, and this one has it all: a limited release, a quirky cereal box tie-in, and a distinct design. In 2021, one of these coins sold for $1.4 million at an auction, setting a record for Sacagawea dollars. Its value comes from its scarcity and the excitement it generates among collectors.
How to Spot the Million-Dollar Coin
Finding a Cheerios Dollar isn’t easy, but it’s worth checking your spare change. Look for a Sacagawea dollar from 2000 with a clear, detailed eagle on the back. The tail feathers should look sharper and more defined than on regular coins. If you think you have one, get it checked by a professional coin grader. Services like PCGS or NGC can verify if it’s a genuine Cheerios Dollar. Be careful, though—many regular Sacagawea dollars look similar at first glance.
| Feature | Cheerios Dollar | Regular Sacagawea Dollar |
|---|---|---|
| Year | 2000 | 2000–present |
| Eagle Tail Feathers | Enhanced, sharp detail | Standard, less defined |
| Distribution | Cheerios cereal boxes (5,500 coins) | General circulation |
| Estimated Value | Up to $1.4 million | $1 (face value) |
What to Do If You Find One
If you’re lucky enough to find a Cheerios Dollar, don’t spend it. First, store it in a safe place, like a coin holder, to avoid damage. Then, contact a reputable coin dealer or grading service to authenticate it. If it’s real, you could be sitting on a life-changing amount of money. Even if it’s not a Cheerios Dollar, other rare Sacagawea varieties can still be worth thousands. Always double-check before selling or trading to ensure you get a fair deal.
The Sacagawea dollar reminds us that treasures can hide in plain sight. Next time you empty your pockets or dig through a jar of coins, take a closer look. That small piece of change could be your ticket to a million-dollar payday. With only a few Cheerios Dollars out there, the hunt is on for this rare coin that’s turned spare change into a collector’s dream.