The history of U.S. Dollar Coins is filled with fascinating designs and stories. Among the most notable are the Susan B. Anthony Dollar and the Sacagawea Dollar. Though both were intended for everyday use, they became more significant in the world of coin collecting due to their unique designs, limited mintages, and rare error varieties. In 2026, collectors continue to seek these coins, not only for their historical importance but also for the hidden fortunes they may hold.
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Introduced in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman. The obverse shows Susan B. Anthony, a leader in the women’s suffrage movement, while the reverse depicts an eagle landing on the moon, symbolizing America’s achievements in space.
Key Varieties
- 1979 Wide Rim: A variety with a noticeably wider rim, highly collectible.
- 1981 Proof Issues: Struck only for collectors, with mirror‑like finishes.
- 1999 Reissue: Produced in limited numbers, valuable in mint condition.
Value Range
Common circulation coins are worth $1 to $5, but rare varieties like the Wide Rim can reach $500 or more. Proof coins and reissues also command higher prices depending on condition.
The Sacagawea Dollar
Released in 2000, the Sacagawea Dollar honored Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who guided Lewis and Clark. Designed by Glenna Goodacre, the coin shows Sacagawea carrying her infant son. The reverse initially featured a soaring eagle, later replaced with rotating Native American themes beginning in 2009.
Key Varieties
- 2000 Cheerios Dollar: Distributed in cereal boxes with a unique eagle design, extremely rare.
- 2000-P Mule Error: A famous error combining the obverse of a Washington Quarter with the reverse of a Sacagawea Dollar.
- 2000-P Wounded Eagle: A die gouge across the eagle’s body creates a distinctive variety.
- Proof Issues: San Francisco struck proof versions with mirror finishes.
Value Range
Most Sacagawea Dollars are worth face value, but rare varieties can be worth thousands. The Cheerios Dollar ranges from $5,000 to $25,000, while the Mule Error has sold for over $100,000.
Value Chart
| Coin | Description | Approximate Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1979 Wide Rim Anthony | Rare variety | $50 – $500+ |
| 1981 Proof Anthony | Collector issue | $20 – $100+ |
| 1999 Anthony Reissue | Limited mintage | $10 – $50+ |
| 2000 Cheerios Sacagawea | Rare promotional coin | $5,000 – $25,000+ |
| 2000-P Mule Error | Famous error | $50,000 – $200,000+ |
| 2000-P Wounded Eagle | Die gouge variety | $500 – $5,000+ |
| Sacagawea Proof Issues | Collector strikes | $10 – $50+ |
Collecting Tips
- Always check mint marks and rim details, as they can reveal rare varieties.
- Use magnification to spot doubling, gouges, or unusual features.
- Store coins in protective holders to prevent wear.
- Consider professional grading to authenticate rare varieties.
- Follow auction trends to stay updated on current market values.
Key Highlights
- Susan B. Anthony Dollar was minted from 1979 to 1981, with a reissue in 1999.
- Sacagawea Dollar was introduced in 2000 and continues with annual Native American designs.
- Rare varieties include the 1979 Wide Rim, Cheerios Dollar, Mule Error, and Wounded Eagle.
- Values range from a few dollars to hundreds of thousands depending on rarity and condition.
- Collectors in 2026 continue to discover hidden fortunes in these coins.
Final Words
Susan B. Anthony and Sacagawea Dollars represent important chapters in U.S. coinage history. While many examples circulate at face value, rare varieties and error coins can be worth significant amounts. For collectors, these coins offer both historical meaning and the thrill of uncovering hidden treasures. In 2026, they remain a fascinating part of numismatics, inspiring collectors to look closely at every coin in search of the next great discovery.
