A Coin Worth Millions
Imagine finding a coin in your pocket worth millions. A rare 2000 Sacagawea dollar, called the “mule” error coin, sold for $2.1 million at a private auction in October 2025. This coin has the Sacagawea portrait on the front but was accidentally stamped with the back of a Washington quarter, showing an eagle. This mistake happened at the Philadelphia Mint, and only a few of these coins exist. Collectors go crazy for them because they’re so rare. Other special Sacagawea dollars, like the “Wounded Eagle” or the 2000-P Cheerios version, can also be worth thousands.
What Makes the Sacagawea Dollar Special?
The Sacagawea dollar came out in 2000 to honor a Native American woman who helped the Lewis and Clark expedition. It’s a golden-colored coin made of a manganese-brass mix, not real gold. Most of these coins are worth just a dollar, but certain errors make them super valuable. The mule error is the star, with fewer than 20 known to exist. Another version, the 2000-P Cheerios dollar, has extra detail in the eagle’s tail feathers and can sell for up to $10,200. The Wounded Eagle, with a mark on the eagle’s chest, might bring in about $500.
How to Spot a Valuable Coin
You might have a treasure in your change. To check, look at the back of any 2000 Sacagawea dollar. If it shows a quarter’s eagle instead of the usual soaring eagle, you could have a mule worth millions. The Cheerios version has sharper tail feathers, and the Wounded Eagle has a noticeable scratch or mark on the eagle’s chest. Use a magnifying glass to see details clearly. Never clean the coin, as that can lower its value. If you think you’ve got a rare one, send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC for an expert opinion.
| Coin Type | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Error | Quarter’s eagle on reverse | Up to $2.1 million |
| Cheerios Dollar | Detailed tail feathers | Up to $10,200 |
Why Are These Coins So Rare?
Minting errors like the mule happen when the wrong dies are used during production. For the Sacagawea mule, a quarter’s reverse die was paired with a dollar’s front die, creating a unique mix-up. Since the U.S. Mint catches most mistakes, very few of these coins reached the public. The Cheerios dollars were part of a special promotion with General Mills, included in some cereal boxes, which limits their number. Collectors love these coins because they’re scarce and tell a story of minting mishaps.
| Error Type | Cause | Rarity |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Error | Wrong reverse die used | Fewer than 20 known |
| Wounded Eagle | Die damage or scratch | Limited number |
What to Do If You Find One
If you find a coin that looks like a mule or another rare variant, handle it carefully. Store it in a soft plastic holder to avoid scratches. Contact a professional grading service to confirm its authenticity and condition. These services can tell you if your coin is the real deal and estimate its value. Selling through a reputable auction house or dealer is the best way to get top dollar. While most Sacagawea coins are common, checking your change could lead to a life-changing discovery.
A Fun Hunt for Everyone
Searching for rare coins is like a treasure hunt anyone can join. Next time you get change, take a closer look at those golden dollars. A simple coin from 2000 could be worth a fortune. With a little luck and a sharp eye, you might find a Sacagawea dollar that turns your spare change into millions. So, grab a magnifying glass and start checking your wallet today.
