Have you checked your loose change lately? A rare mistake on the 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar could turn pocket change into a small fortune. Known as the “mule error,” this coin has sold for as much as $72,000 at auctions. The error happened when the U.S. Mint accidentally paired the front of a Sacagawea Dollar with the back of a state quarter. This mix-up created a unique coin that collectors are eager to find. Here’s how you can spot this valuable error in your collection.
What Is the Mule Error?
The mule error is a rare coin with the obverse (front) of a 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar and the reverse (back) of a Washington state quarter. The Sacagawea Dollar, introduced in 2000, features Native American guide Sacagawea on the front and a soaring eagle on the back. The state quarter, however, has a different design, typically showing state-specific artwork. The mismatch happened during production, creating a coin that stands out. Only about 20 of these coins are known to exist, making them extremely valuable.
How to Identify the Mule Error
To find this error, you’ll need to closely examine your 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar. Here’s what to look for:
- Check the date and mint mark: The coin should have a “P” mint mark (for Philadelphia) and the year 2000 on the front.
- Look at the reverse: Instead of the eagle, the back should show the design of a state quarter, like George Washington’s portrait or state symbols.
- Inspect the edge: The Sacagawea Dollar has a plain edge, while quarters have a reeded edge. The mule error may have a reeded edge.
- Verify the metal: The Sacagawea Dollar is golden-colored, but the mule might look slightly different due to the quarter’s composition.
A magnifying glass can help you spot these details. If you’re unsure, compare your coin to images of confirmed mule errors online.
Why Is It So Valuable?
The mule error’s value comes from its rarity and the mistake itself. Coin collectors love errors because they’re unique pieces of history. The 2000-P Sacagawea mule error is especially prized because so few were made. In 2000, one of these coins sold for $72,000, and prices have stayed high. The exact value depends on the coin’s condition, with well-preserved coins fetching the most. Professional grading services, like PCGS or NGC, can confirm authenticity and boost its worth.
Where to Find These Coins
You might already have a mule error in your collection without knowing it. Check old coin rolls, inherited collections, or even loose change from 2000. Some were found in circulation, so it’s worth looking through jars of coins at home. If you think you’ve found one, contact a reputable coin dealer or grading service to verify it. Be cautious of fakes, as some may try to pass off altered coins as the real deal.
Quick Reference Guide
| Feature | Sacagawea Dollar | Mule Error |
|---|---|---|
| Obverse Design | Sacagawea Portrait | Sacagawea Portrait |
| Reverse Design | Soaring Eagle | State Quarter Design |
| Edge | Plain | Reeded or Plain |
| Mint Mark | P (Philadelphia) | P (Philadelphia) |
Start Your Treasure Hunt
The 2000-P Sacagawea mule error is a collector’s dream, turning an ordinary dollar into a potential jackpot. By knowing what to look for, you can start searching your coins for this rare gem. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, the thrill of finding a $72,000 coin is worth the effort. Grab a magnifying glass, check your change, and you might uncover a piece of numismatic history.