Most people don’t think twice about the golden dollar coins they get in change. But in rare cases, one of those seemingly ordinary coins could be worth thousands. The 2000 “Cheerios” Sacagawea Dollar is one such example, with rare versions selling for up to $12,000. The most incredible part? Some of these valuable coins may still be quietly circulating today.
What Is the Sacagawea Dollar?
The Sacagawea Dollar was first minted in 2000 to honor Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who played a crucial role in guiding the Lewis and Clark expedition. The coin features her portrait carrying her infant son, Jean Baptiste, on the obverse, and a soaring eagle on the reverse.
It was designed to replace the Susan B. Anthony dollar and minted with a distinctive golden hue thanks to its manganese-brass alloy. While the coin never gained major traction in everyday use, it remains a favorite among coin collectors.
The $12,000 Cheerios Sacagawea Dollar: What Makes It So Special?
In 2000, General Mills partnered with the U.S. Mint to promote the new Sacagawea Dollar. As part of this campaign, 5,500 coins were included in boxes of Cheerios cereal. These early promotional pieces came to be known as “Cheerios Dollars”.
What sets them apart is the design. Unlike the standard issue, the Cheerios version features a more detailed eagle tail feather design on the reverse. These coins were early strike patterns, making them extremely rare and valuable to collectors today.
How to Identify a Cheerios Sacagawea Dollar
Not every 2000 Sacagawea Dollar is valuable — you’ll need to examine the details carefully. Here’s how to tell if you might be holding one of the rare ones:
1. Check the Year
The coin must be dated 2000. Only coins from this year were included in the Cheerios promotion.
2. Look at the Eagle’s Tail Feathers
The key difference is the tail feathers on the eagle. The Cheerios version has distinctly separated and sharper tail feather lines, unlike the smoother design on regular coins.
3. Don’t Mistake It for a Proof Coin
These coins are business strikes, not proofs. They do not have the shiny mirror-like finish that proof coins do. If the coin looks like a regular circulated dollar but has the enhanced tail design, it could be a Cheerios dollar.
4. Condition Matters
As with all collectible coins, mint state condition increases value. A well-preserved Cheerios Sacagawea Dollar can bring in $5,000 to $12,000 or more at auction.
Can You Still Find These in Circulation?
Surprisingly, yes. Some people who received these coins in cereal boxes back in 2000 may have unknowingly spent them. Others were passed along without recognizing their value.
That’s why it’s still possible to find a 2000 Sacagawea Dollar in pocket change. While most will be standard, it’s worth checking — especially if you spot one with enhanced feather detail.
Other Rare Sacagawea Dollar Coins to Watch For
While the Cheerios Dollar is the most famous, there are other valuable Sacagawea coins worth checking for:
- 2000-P “Wounded Eagle”: Features a raised line across the eagle’s body, resembling a wound. Can sell for several hundred dollars depending on condition.
- 2000-P Mule Error: One of the rarest modern coin errors, it features the Washington quarter obverse with the Sacagawea dollar reverse. Only a few are known to exist and they can sell for over $100,000.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Found One
- Don’t clean the coin — cleaning can lower its value.
- Get it authenticated — Submit it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC.
- Research its value — Look at recent sales or consult a numismatic expert.
- Sell through reputable platforms — Use trusted dealers, coin shows, or major auction houses for rare finds.
Final Thoughts: The Value Might Be in Your Wallet
The Sacagawea Cheerios Dollar proves that not all treasures are buried or locked away. With a little awareness, you could find a $12,000 coin right in your everyday change.
So next time you receive a golden dollar coin, take a second look. If it’s from the year 2000, flip it over and study those tail feathers. You might just uncover a hidden gem that’s been sitting in your pocket all along.
FAQs
Q: How many Cheerios Sacagawea Dollars were made?
A: About 5,500 were distributed in cereal boxes in 2000. Only a fraction of these had the enhanced tail feather pattern that makes them valuable.
Q: Are all 2000 Sacagawea Dollars valuable?
A: No, most are worth face value. Only special varieties like the Cheerios Dollar, Wounded Eagle, or Mule Error are considered highly collectible.
Q: How can I verify if my Sacagawea Dollar is rare?
A: Submit the coin to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC. They can confirm its authenticity and rarity.
Q: Where can I sell rare coins?
A: You can sell through certified coin dealers, numismatic auctions, or online platforms like eBay — but be sure the coin is graded and authenticated first.
Tip: Always keep an eye on your change. That ordinary-looking dollar coin could be your unexpected windfall.