The Sacagawea Dollar is one of the most recognizable coins in American history. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just getting started, here are 10 fun facts about this golden coin that might surprise you!
1. It's Not Actually Gold
Despite its golden appearance, the Sacagawea Dollar is made of a manganese-brass alloy over a pure copper core. The golden color was chosen to make it easy to distinguish from other coins.
2. It Was First Minted in 2000
The Sacagawea Dollar debuted in 2000, replacing the Susan B. Anthony Dollar. The 2000D (Denver Mint) and 2000P (Philadelphia Mint) were the first issues in the series.
3. Sacagawea Was a Shoshone Woman
Sacagawea was a Shoshone Native American woman who served as a guide and interpreter for the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1804 to 1806. She is one of the most celebrated women in American history.
4. The Baby on the Coin Is Her Son
The coin depicts Sacagawea carrying her infant son, Jean Baptiste Charbonneau, on her back — a nod to the journey she made with him as a newborn during the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
5. A Teenager Designed the Portrait
The portrait of Sacagawea on the coin was modeled after Randy'L He-dow Teton, a Shoshone-Bannock college student who was selected from hundreds of candidates to represent Sacagawea.
6. The Reverse Design Changed in 2009
Starting in 2009, the reverse (tails) side of the coin began rotating through different designs honoring Native American contributions to American history and culture — similar to the State Quarters program.
7. It Has a Smooth Edge
Unlike many U.S. coins, the Sacagawea Dollar has a plain, smooth edge with no reeding (ridges). This makes it easy to identify by touch.
8. Cheerios Boxes Contained Special Coins
In 2000, General Mills included a Sacagawea Dollar in specially marked Cheerios boxes as a promotional giveaway. These "Cheerios Dollars" have a slightly different reverse design and are highly sought after by collectors today.
9. It Was Meant to Replace the Dollar Bill
The U.S. government hoped the Sacagawea Dollar would replace the paper dollar bill, which is more expensive to produce. However, the public never widely adopted it, and dollar bills remained dominant.
10. Billions Have Been Minted
Despite not seeing much circulation, billions of Sacagawea Dollars have been minted since 2000. Many sit in Federal Reserve vaults, making certain dates and mint marks more valuable to collectors than others.
Ready to add a Sacagawea Dollar to your collection? Browse our selection at Al the Penny Guy and find the perfect coin for your collection!