Sacagawea Dollar: In a stunning numismatic turn of events, a 2000 Sacagawea dollar struck on a quarter planchet—a true “mule” error—has recently been appraised at $2.1 million, setting a record for modern U.S. coin errors this year.
This once‑in‑a‑generation mistake merges two distinct coin designs and materials, creating one of the rarest and most valuable error coins ever discovered.
What Is a “Mule” Coin Error?
A mule error occurs when the dies or planchets of two different coins accidentally combine during the minting process – an extremely rare occurrence.
In this case, a Sacagawea reverse die was paired with a Washington quarter obverse die and struck on a quarter planchet
Error Details of the $2.1 Million Mule
| Feature | Standard Sacagawea Dollar | The Mule Error Coin |
|---|---|---|
| Year of coin | 2000 | 2000 |
| Obverse design | Sacagawea & Child | George Washington (quarter obverse) |
| Obverse die | Glenna Goodacre | Washington quarter die |
| Metal & color | Manganese‑brass (gold) | Nickel‑silvery (quarter planchet) |
| Planchet size | 26.5 mm | 24.3 mm (quarter size) |
| Weight | ~8.1 g | ~5.67 g (quarter weight) |
| Edge | Plain | Plain, matching quarter planchet |
| Known authenticated | – | Fewer than 20 independently graded specimens |
Evidence shows fewer than 20 authenticated examples, most owned by a private collector, and all graded by PCGS or NGC at MS‑64 to MS‑67
How the Error Happened
During the transitional minting phase from Susan B. Anthony dollars to Sacagawea dollars in late 1999 – early 2000, a Philadelphia mint error caused a Sacagawea reverse die to be paired incorrectly with a Washington quarter obverse die.
Thousands of mis‑struck coins may have been destroyed, but some cuts through quality control and entered general circulation .
Provenance & Condition
- Discoveries: The first example surfaced in Arkansas’s Mountain Home area in May 2000
- Authentication: Coins were graded by PCGS/NGC, with top specimens reaching MS‑67
- Condition: The current $2.1 million coin is described as pristine, virtually uncirculated—perfect quality for its rarity.
Valuation & Auction Record
- 2012: One mule sold for $155,250
- 2013: A top-tier mule error graded MS‑66 sold for $88,125
- 2025: The latest appraisal places the value at a staggering $2.1 million
Why It’s a Modern Treasure
- Transitional rarity: Among the first accidental mule errors of modern U.S. coinage j
- Scarcity: Fewer than 20 known specimens.
- Condition: High-graded by PCGS/NGC, with flawless examples.
- Demand: Collectors seek unique modern errors, driving value to the multimillion‑dollar range.
How to Spot One
- Check color & shine: Silver-colored but with Sacagawea reverse.
- Measure size/weight: If it matches about 24.3 mm and ~5.7 g, it may be the mule.
- Examine design: Washington obverse paired with Sacagawea reverse.
- Professional grading: Send to PCGS or NGC; certification adds significant premium.
Broader Context: Sacagawea Errors
Aside from the mule, other rare Sacagawea dollar errors include:
- Wounded‑eagle die gouge (FS‑901): 600 certified; top specimens fetch $5,000–$5,200
- Cheerios promotional variety: About 5,500 minted; eagle‑tail variety worth $2,000–$2,200
- Off‑center or double‑strike errors: Typically sell for $300–$5,000.
The $2.1 million Sacagawea mule error redefines modern coin collecting. With its unmatched rarity, pristine condition, and historical significance, it stands at the pinnacle of U.S. error coins.
While finding one now is nearly impossible, it reminds us that everyday change can hold extraordinary treasures.
FAQs
What exactly is the $2.1 million Sacagawea mule error?
It’s a 2000 Sacagawea dollar struck on a quarter planchet with the Washington obverse die—creating a hybrid mule coin, valued at $2.1 million
How many of these coins exist?
Fewer than 20 authenticated specimens are known, mostly held by collectors and certified at MS‑64 to MS‑67 .
Can regular collectors find one in circulation?
Extremely unlikely. Most were recovered early, authenticated, and destroyed; only a few leaked into circulation, making discovery almost impossible today.