Sacagawea Native American $1 Coin
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint
Pattern: Sacagawea / Native American Dollar Series
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint
Material
Manganese-Brass Clad Copper (88.5% copper, 6% zinc, 3.5% manganese, 2% nickel); contains 0% silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 26.5 mm; Thickness: 2.0 mm; Weight: 8.1 grams.
Description
A golden-toned United States dollar coin featuring the Shoshone guide Sacagawea on the obverse and a soaring eagle on the reverse. Although colloquially called 'golden dollars,' they contain no actual gold or silver, utilizing a specific alloy to achieve a brassy luster.
Key Features
Soaring eagle reverse design, distinct golden color, and the presence of 17 stars representing the states at the time of the Lewis and Clark expedition.
Material & Composition
Manganese-Brass Clad Copper (88.5% copper, 6% zinc, 3.5% manganese, 2% nickel); contains 0% silver.
Finish & Decoration
Golden-colored satin finish; Reverse features a soaring Bald Eagle designed by Thomas D. Rogers Sr. surrounded by 17 stars.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'ONE DOLLAR', and 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'. The mint mark (e.g., P, D, or S) is found on the obverse or edge depending on the year.
Construction Details
Multi-layer cladding; a pure copper core bonded between layers of manganese brass, die-struck by high-pressure coinage presses.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency; electromagnetic signature designed to match the Susan B. Anthony dollar for use in vending machines.
Handle & Grip Details
Smooth edge (plain) for 2000-2008 issues; lettered edge for 2009-present issues.
Craftsmanship Details
Modern industrial coinage; machine-engraved dies producing thousands of identical strikes per minute with high-relief detail.
Authentication Indicators
Standard US Mint strike characteristics, proper diameter, and copper-colored edge visible upon side inspection.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; minted in Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), or San Francisco (S).
Era & Period
Contemporary (Modern Era), introduced in 2000.
Age Estimate
Dated 2000 to present; based on the reverse soaring eagle design, this specific coin was likely minted between 2000 and 2008.
Cultural Significance
Designed to honor Native American contributions to US history and provide a more durable alternative to the $1 paper bill.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; exhibits surface scratches, minor tarnish/patina typical of manganese-brass oxidation, and slight loss of detail on eagle feathers. Grade: Fine to Very Fine.
Value Estimate
Face value ($1.00 USD) for circulated examples. Uncirculated or rare varieties (like the 'Cheerios' eagle) can command higher premiums.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish if seeking numismatic value; store in a PVC-free flip or tube to prevent 'milk spotting' or heavy oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Susan B. Anthony Dollar (silver-colored), Presidential Dollar (golden-colored), or Eisenhower Dollar (larger size).
Interesting Facts
The coin was launched with a massive $40 million marketing campaign including partnerships with Walmart and General Mills (Cheerios boxes).