A Sacagawea dollar coin, first minted in 2000, has collectors buzzing after one with a rare error sold for an incredible $2.1 million. This golden coin, meant to honor the Native American guide Sacagawea, was supposed to be worth just $1. But a tiny mix-up at the U.S. Mint turned it into a treasure. Found in a small batch from the Philadelphia Mint, this coin’s unique flaw makes it one of the rarest modern coins in the U.S. Let’s explore what makes this dollar so special and how it became a fortune for one lucky owner.
A Mule Coin Mix-Up
The $2.1 million coin is called a “mule,” a term for coins struck with mismatched designs. This Sacagawea dollar has the front of a Sacagawea coin, showing her with her baby, but the back has the eagle design meant for a Washington quarter. This error happened in 2000 when a few quarter blanks got mixed into the Sacagawea minting process at the Philadelphia Mint. Only a handful of these mules exist, making them super rare. The coin’s pristine condition also boosted its value, as collectors love coins with no wear.
The Sacagawea Coin’s Story
Introduced in 2000 to replace the Susan B. Anthony dollar, the Sacagawea coin was designed to stand out with its golden color, thanks to a manganese-brass alloy. It honors Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who helped the Lewis and Clark expedition. Despite its cool design, the coin never caught on for everyday use. Some people even mistook it for a token because of its shiny look. But rare versions, like this mule, have turned it into a collector’s dream.
How It Was Found
This million-dollar coin was discovered by a sharp-eyed collector in a roll of Sacagawea dollars from a bank. At first, it seemed like a normal coin, but the odd back design raised suspicions. Experts confirmed it was a genuine mule, and its value skyrocketed. Over time, as fewer mules were found, their prices climbed. The $2.1 million sale happened at a private auction in October 2025, setting a new record for modern error coins. Collectors call it a “unicorn” because it’s so rare.
Other Valuable Sacagawea Errors
While the mule is the star, other Sacagawea errors can also fetch big bucks. For example, the “Wounded Eagle” variety, with a line on the eagle’s chest that looks like a spear, is worth about $500. The 2000-P Cheerios dollar, with extra-detailed tail feathers, can sell for up to $10,200. Check your coins for odd features like missing letters, double strikes, or wrong metal colors. If you spot something unusual, get it checked by a pro.
| Error Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Mule (Quarter Reverse) | Up to $2.1 million |
| Wounded Eagle | $300–$500 |
| Cheerios Dollar | $4,000–$10,200 |
| Missing Edge Lettering | $650–$1,100 |
Tips for Coin Hunters
This huge sale has sparked a coin-hunting frenzy across the U.S. Collectors are checking spare change and old jars for Sacagawea dollars, especially 2000-P coins from Philadelphia. If you find one, look for a mismatched back or odd edges. Use a magnifying glass to spot details and a scale to check weight. Experts say to store coins in protective sleeves and get them graded by services like PCGS or NGC. Your pocket change might hide a million-dollar secret