A Rare Coin Hiding in Plain Sight
Could Your 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar Be Worth $72000 : Imagine finding a $72,000 treasure in your pocket change! The 2000-P Sacagawea dollar, a golden coin honoring the Native American guide of the Lewis and Clark expedition, has a rare error known as a “mule” that makes it incredibly valuable. This mistake, where the coin was struck with mismatched designs, has collectors buzzing. With only about 20 known examples, some of which have sold for tens of thousands, this coin could be hiding in your wallet, coin jar, or old collection. Here’s how to check if you’ve got one.
What Makes This Coin So Special
A mule error happens when a coin is made with two designs that don’t belong together. For the 2000-P Sacagawea dollar, the front (obverse) shows George Washington from a Washington quarter, while the back (reverse) has the soaring eagle from the Sacagawea dollar, all on a golden dollar planchet. This mix-up occurred at the Philadelphia Mint in 2000, likely due to similar-sized dies being swapped by mistake. First discovered by a collector in Arkansas, these coins have fetched up to $72,000 at auction, with one selling for $194,062.50 in 2024, making it a top modern U.S. coin error.
How to Spot the $72,000 Mule Error
Think you might have this rare coin? Here’s what to look for. Check the front of your 2000-P Sacagawea dollar; it should show George Washington’s profile, not Sacagawea. Look for a small “P” mint mark near Washington’s neck, indicating it’s from Philadelphia. The back should have the eagle in flight with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR” around it. The coin should be golden, about 26.5 mm wide, and weigh 8.1 grams, like a standard Sacagawea dollar. Use a magnifying glass to confirm details, and don’t clean the coin, as it could lower its value. Take it to a professional grader like PCGS or NGC for authentication.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 2000 |
| Mint Mark | P (Philadelphia) |
| Obverse | Washington Quarter (George Washington) |
| Reverse | Sacagawea Dollar (Soaring Eagle) |
| Estimated Value | Up to $72,000 or more |
Where These Coins Might Be Found
The thrill of the hunt is real—these mule error coins could still be in circulation. Some were found in bank rolls, vending machines, or everyday change before their value was known. Experts believe only a few dozen exist, with most now in private collections or museums. The U.S. Mint destroyed many after the error was caught, but a few slipped through. Check your old coin rolls, piggy banks, or family heirlooms. Stories of people stumbling across these coins in ordinary places keep collectors hopeful for the next big find.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve got a mule error coin, handle it carefully. Store it in a soft cloth or plastic holder to avoid scratches. Contact a trusted coin dealer or auction house for an expert appraisal. Fakes exist, so professional grading by services like PCGS or NGC is crucial to confirm authenticity. If it’s real, you could be looking at a payout of tens of thousands, or even more for top-quality coins. With collectors eager to own this piece of minting history, now’s the time to check your change for this golden treasure.