Sacagawea Golden Dollar Coin (Reverse)
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Currency) · United States Mint (various locations including Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco)
Pattern: Sacagawea Dollar, 'Soaring Eagle' Reverse designed by Thomas D. Rogers Sr.
Type
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Currency)
Maker
United States Mint (various locations including Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco)
Material
Manganese-Brass clad Copper (88.5% copper, 6.0% zinc, 3.5% manganese, 2.0% nickel). Note: Contains 0% silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 26.5 mm; Thickness: 2.0 mm; Weight: 8.1 grams.
Description
A United States one-dollar coin featuring the distinctive golden-colored manganese-brass alloy. The reverse shows an eagle in flight, conveying a sense of movement and 'soaring' above the landscape, a departure from the Heraldic Eagle motifs used on previous silver dollars.
Key Features
Golden color (often mistaken for gold or silver/gold plate), smooth edge, and the specific 17-star eagle pattern.
Material & Composition
Manganese-Brass clad Copper (88.5% copper, 6.0% zinc, 3.5% manganese, 2.0% nickel). Note: Contains 0% silver.
Finish & Decoration
Satin golden finish (as-struck). Reverse features a soaring Bald Eagle surrounded by 17 stars representing the states in the Union at the time of the Lewis and Clark expedition.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscriptions: 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'ONE DOLLAR'. Mint mark (P, D, or S) would be on the obverse.
Construction Details
Die-struck at a high-pressure minting press; three-layer clad construction with a pure copper core.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency for the United States; reedless (smooth) edge for most early issues (2000-2008).
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; circular physical currency designed for handheld exchange.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial high-speed minting; features high-relief artistic engraving by Thomas D. Rogers Sr.
Authentication Indicators
Precise die striking of the feathers, crisp lettering, and the distinctive manganese-brass luster which patinas to a dull mustard-brown over time rather than silver's black tarnish.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; likely Philadelphia (no mark) or Denver (D mark) for circulation strikes.
Era & Period
Modern Era (post-millennium), specifically the Native American Dollar series starting in the year 2000.
Age Estimate
Produced between 2000 and 2008 based on the 'Soaring Eagle' reverse design.
Cultural Significance
Commemorates the contribution of Sacagawea to the Lewis and Clark Expedition; represents a shift in US coinage toward honoring diverse historical figures.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition with visible surface scratches, light toning, and 'bag marks'. Grade: Very Fine (VF) to Extra Fine (EF).
Value Estimate
Face value ($1.00 USD). High-grade uncirculated specimens or 'Cheerio' varieties can be worth significantly more.
Care & Maintenance
For circulated coins, no cleaning is recommended as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or acid-free paper envelope.
Similar Pieces
Susan B. Anthony Dollar (silver-colored), Presidential Dollar (same composition, different reverse), Eisenhower Dollar (larger size).
Interesting Facts
Despite their golden appearance, these coins contain no precious metal. They were launched in 2000 to replace the Susan B. Anthony dollar which was often confused with quarters.