Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar Discovered in Change – Now Worth $2.5 Million

In the world of coin collecting, few stories are as captivating as that of the Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar.

This rare coin, initially distributed as part of a promotional campaign in 2000, has become a sought-after treasure, with some specimens fetching up to $2.5 million at auction.

This article delves into the history, significance, and current value of this extraordinary coin.

What Is the Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar?

The Sacagawea Dollar was introduced by the U.S. Mint in 2000 to replace the Susan B. Anthony dollar. The coin features an image of Sacagawea, the Shoshone guide who accompanied Lewis and Clark on their expedition, carrying her infant son, Jean Baptiste Charbonneau. The reverse design showcases a soaring eagle, symbolizing freedom and peace.

In early 2000, the U.S. Mint partnered with General Mills to promote the new dollar coin. As part of the campaign, 5,500 Sacagawea Dollars were randomly inserted into boxes of Cheerios cereal. These coins are now known as the Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollars.

Why Is It So Valuable?

The value of the Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar stems from several factors:

• Limited Mintage: Only 5,500 coins were produced and distributed through the promotion, making them extremely rare.
• Unique Reverse Design: The reverse side of these coins features an eagle with boldly detailed tail feathers, a design that differs from the standard Sacagawea Dollar.
• High-Grade Specimens: Coins that have been well-preserved and graded by professional services like PCGS or NGC can command significant premiums.
• Historical Significance: The coin represents a unique moment in U.S. Mint history, combining a national promotion with a distinctive design variation.

How to Identify a Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar

Identifying a Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar involves examining the reverse side of the coin:

• Tail Feathers: Look for boldly detailed tail feathers on the eagle. The feathers should have raised central shafts and visible veins, distinguishing them from the standard design.
• Mint Mark: The coin should have a “P” mint mark, indicating it was minted in Philadelphia.
• Condition: Coins in Mint State (MS) grades are more valuable. The higher the grade, the more valuable the coin.

Market Value and Auction Records

The market value of the Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar varies based on its condition and provenance:

• High-Grade Examples: Coins graded MS67 or higher can fetch between $5,000 and $25,000 at auction.
• Top-Tier Specimens: In exceptional cases, coins graded SP69 have sold for up to $2.5 million, setting records in the numismatic community.

These sales highlight the coin’s desirability among collectors and investors alike.

Key Facts About the Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar

Feature	Details
Year Minted	2000
Mint Mark	“P” (Philadelphia)
Total Mintage	5,500 coins distributed in Cheerios boxes
Unique Feature	Detailed eagle tail feathers on the reverse
Market Value	$5,000 to $25,000 (MS67); up to $2.5 million (SP69)
Grading Services	PCGS, NGC

Real-Life Discovery Stories

Several collectors have found Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollars in unexpected places:

• Pocket Change: Some individuals have discovered these rare coins in their everyday change, unaware of their value until later.
• Estate Sales: Others have found them among inherited collections, leading to significant financial windfalls.
• Coin Shops: Occasionally, these coins surface in coin shops, where knowledgeable dealers can authenticate and appraise them.

These stories underscore the potential for finding valuable coins in everyday situations.

How to Protect and Authenticate Your Coin

If you believe you have a Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar, consider the following steps:

1. Do Not Clean the Coin: Cleaning can damage the coin and reduce its value.
2. Consult a Professional: Take the coin to a reputable coin dealer or grading service for authentication and grading.
3. Store Properly: Keep the coin in a protective holder to prevent physical damage.

Proper handling and documentation can help preserve the coin’s value.

The Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar is a remarkable example of how a simple promotional campaign can lead to the creation of a highly valuable collectible.

Its rarity, unique design features, and historical significance make it a prized possession for collectors. Whether you find one in your change jar or inherit it from a relative, discovering this coin can be a life-changing event.

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