A Coin Worth Millions
Imagine finding a dollar coin in your pocket that could buy you a mansion. The Sacagawea dollar, first made in 2000 to honor the Shoshone woman who helped Lewis and Clark, is usually worth just one dollar. But a rare version, due to a minting mistake, sold for $2.1 million in 2025. This special coin, called the “Cheerios Dollar” or “mule error,” is still out there, hiding in change jars or cash registers. Knowing what to look for could turn your spare change into a fortune.
What Makes It Special
The Sacagawea dollar is a gold-colored coin with Sacagawea and her baby on the front and an eagle on the back. The rare version has unique features. The “Cheerios Dollar” was part of a 2000 promotion where early coins were placed in Cheerios cereal boxes. These coins have extra detail in the eagle’s tail feathers, making them stand out. Another rare type, the mule error, has the front of a Washington quarter but the back of a Sacagawea dollar. Only about 20 of these mule errors are known to exist, making them super valuable.
| Feature | Regular Sacagawea Dollar | Cheerios Dollar |
|---|---|---|
| Eagle Tail Feathers | Standard detail | Enhanced, sharp detail |
| Finish | Normal | Bright, shiny |
How to Spot the Rare Coin
Finding this coin takes a sharp eye. Check the back for the eagle’s tail feathers; the Cheerios Dollar has clearer, more defined feathers than regular ones. The mule error is trickier, showing a Washington quarter design on the front. Look for a coin that feels off, like it has the wrong face. Also, check for a shiny, almost mirror-like finish, as these coins were made with extra care. Use a magnifying glass to inspect details, and don’t clean the coin, as that can lower its value.
| Coin Type | Obverse (Front) | Reverse (Back) |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Error | Washington Quarter | Sacagawea Eagle |
| Regular Sacagawea | Sacagawea Portrait | Standard Eagle |
Where to Find It
These rare coins could be anywhere. Check your pocket change, coin rolls from banks, or even vending machine returns. Some collectors say old change jars or piggy banks are good places to look. The Cheerios Dollar was handed out in cereal boxes, so some might still be in circulation, unnoticed. The mule error, a mint mistake, also slipped into public hands. With only a few thousand Cheerios Dollars and even fewer mule errors made, your chances are slim but not zero.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you have a rare Sacagawea dollar, don’t spend it. Take it to a professional coin grader like PCGS or NGC to confirm it’s real. They’ll check its condition and authenticity, which can boost its value. A graded coin in great shape could be worth thousands or even millions. Keep it safe and untouched until you get it checked. Joining a coin club or following numismatic news can also help you learn more about spotting these treasures.
Why It’s a Big Deal
The Sacagawea dollar’s value comes from its rarity and history. The Cheerios Dollar and mule error are like hidden gems, blending a piece of American history with a minting mistake. The $2.1 million sale in 2025 sparked a craze among collectors, with people digging through their change hoping to strike it rich. Even worn versions of these coins can sell for big money. So, next time you get a gold-colored dollar, take a closer look. You might just be holding a million-dollar mistake.