Sacagawea Dollar: In a remarkable stroke of luck, a rare 2000 Sacagawea dollar featuring the elusive “Cheerios” reverse design was recently discovered in an old wallet — and experts have valued the coin at an astounding $18,500.
The coin, which was part of a promotional campaign by General Mills in early 2000, was one of just 5,500 Sacagawea dollars distributed in Cheerios cereal boxes to celebrate the new millennium and introduce the U.S. Mint’s new golden dollar. While millions of regular 2000 Sacagawea dollars were produced, these early promotional pieces were struck with a slightly different reverse design — one that collectors now refer to as the “Cheerios reverse.”
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What Makes the “Cheerios” Reverse Special?
The difference lies in the eagle’s tail feathers on the reverse side of the coin. On the standard issue 2000 Sacagawea dollar, the tail feathers are less defined. But on the Cheerios version, the tail feathers are more sharply detailed and show an enhanced, high-relief design. This subtle variation wasn’t widely recognized until years later, turning what seemed like a common promotional freebie into a high-value numismatic rarity.
From Forgotten Wallet to Fortune
The newly discovered Cheerios dollar was found by a man in Montana who had stashed away a promotional wallet from the early 2000s. “I was going through some old things and opened a wallet I hadn’t touched in over 20 years,” he said. “Inside was the golden dollar I remembered getting from a cereal box.”
After noticing the unusual feather detail on the eagle, he took the coin to a professional coin dealer, who quickly identified it as one of the rare Cheerios reverse specimens. The coin has since been authenticated and graded by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) as a high-grade example, contributing to its impressive $18,500 valuation.
A Collector’s Dream
Numismatists prize these coins not only for their rarity but also for the unusual way they entered circulation. Because only 5,500 Cheerios Sacagawea dollars were ever distributed — and even fewer have been verified with the enhanced tail feathers — they’re considered a modern rarity. In top condition, they can fetch anywhere from $5,000 to over $20,000 at auction.
Keep Your Eyes (and Wallets) Open
This discovery is a strong reminder to collectors and non-collectors alike: hidden treasures might be lurking in your home, wallets, or even old cereal boxes. With coin values steadily rising for unique pieces like the Cheerios dollar, now is a great time to check your change — or your attic — for potential hidden gems.
As for the lucky owner? He plans to use the unexpected windfall to pay off some bills and take his family on a long-overdue vacation. “I never thought a dollar from a cereal box would be worth this much,” he said. “It really pays to hold on to things.”
FAQ: 2000 Sacagawea Dollar With Cheerios Reverse Found in Wallet — Valued at $18,500
1. What is the “Cheerios” Sacagawea dollar?
It’s a rare version of the 2000 Sacagawea dollar given away in Cheerios boxes, with a unique eagle tail feather design.
2. How is it different from the regular coin?
The Cheerios version has more detailed tail feathers on the eagle, making it distinct and collectible.
3. How rare is it?
Only 5,500 were released, and far fewer have been confirmed, making it extremely rare.
4. Why is it worth $18,500?
Its rarity, condition, and unique design make it highly valuable to collectors.