Could a dollar coin in your pocket be worth thousands? A rare 2000 Sacagawea Dollar with the “Cheerios Reverse” recently sold at auction for $14,000, proving that some coins are far more valuable than their face value. These special coins, tied to a 2000 Cheerios cereal promotion, are a collector’s dream due to their unique design and scarcity.
we’ll explain how to spot this rare coin, why it’s so valuable, and where you might find one in 2025. Whether you’re a coin collector or just checking your change, this coin could make you rich!
What Is the Sacagawea Dollar Cheerios Reverse?
The Sacagawea Dollar, first released in 2000, honors Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who guided the Lewis and Clark expedition. It has a golden color due to its copper core and manganese brass coating. In late 1999, the U.S. Mint partnered with General Mills to promote the new coin by placing 5,500 Sacagawea Dollars in Cheerios cereal boxes.
Years later, in 2005, collectors discovered that some of these coins had a unique reverse (back) design with more detailed eagle tail feathers, now called the “Cheerios Reverse.” This rare variety makes them highly valuable.
Why Is the Cheerios Reverse So Valuable?
- Rarity: Only about 100–126 of the 5,500 Cheerios coins have been found, with many still unaccounted for.
- Unique Design: The eagle’s tail feathers have extra detail, likely from an early test strike or prototype die.
- Condition: Coins in top condition (MS67 or MS68) fetch higher prices at auctions.
- Collector Demand: Their connection to a popular cereal promotion adds a fun, historical appeal.
How to Spot a Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar
Finding this rare coin requires a close look. Here’s what to check for:
Key Features to Identify
- Year and Mint Mark: Look for “2000 P” (Philadelphia mint) below Sacagawea’s portrait.
- Eagle Tail Feathers: The Cheerios Reverse has sharper, more detailed tail feathers with raised central lines and defined grooves, unlike the smoother feathers on regular coins.
- Bright Finish: These coins often have a shiny, lustrous look from early production.
- No Tarnishing: Early Sacagawea Dollars tarnished quickly, but Cheerios coins were often protected in packaging.
Identifying a Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar
| Feature | Description | How to Spot It |
|---|---|---|
| Year/Mint | 2000 P | “P” mint mark below Sacagawea |
| Tail Feathers | Enhanced detail, raised central line | Compare to regular coins with smoother feathers |
| Finish | Bright and shiny | Lustrous, uncirculated appearance |
| Condition | No tarnish or wear | Often preserved in original packaging |
Why Was It Auctioned for $14,000?
A 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar with the Cheerios Reverse recently fetched $14,000 at auction due to its rarity and high grade (likely MS67 or MS68). Auction prices for these coins have ranged from $4,500 to $29,900, with a 2020 sale reaching $10,200 for an MS68 coin. The value keeps rising as fewer are found and demand grows, especially with the U.S. nearing its 250th anniversary in 2026. A well-preserved Cheerios Dollar with its original packaging or certificate of authenticity can boost its value even more.
Notable Auction Sales
- 2008: $29,900 for an MS68 Cheerios Dollar (highest recorded sale).
- 2020: $10,200 for an MS68 coin.
- 2022: $8,350 for an MS68 coin with original packaging.
- 2025: $14,000 for a recently auctioned coin, reflecting strong market interest.
Where to Find a Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar
These coins are still out there, waiting to be discovered! Here’s where to look:
- Pocket Change: Check Sacagawea Dollars from stores, vending machines, or your wallet.
- Coin Rolls: Buy rolls of dollar coins from banks and inspect them closely.
- Old Collections: Search through family coin jars, piggy banks, or old wallets.
- Coin Shows or Dealers: Visit local coin shops or shows, as some dealers may have these in “junk boxes.”
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve found a Cheerios Reverse coin, follow these steps:
- Don’t Clean It: Cleaning can damage the coin and lower its value.
- Store Safely: Place it in a protective holder to avoid scratches.
- Get It Graded: Send it to PCGS or NGC for authentication and grading.
- Sell Wisely: Use auction houses, coin dealers, or trusted platforms like eBay after grading.
Conclusion
The 2000 Sacagawea Dollar with the Cheerios Reverse is a modern treasure that could turn your spare change into thousands. With only a few hundred known and recent auctions hitting $14,000, this coin is a collector’s jackpot. By checking the eagle’s tail feathers and mint mark on your 2000-P Sacagawea Dollars, you might find one hiding in your pocket or an old coin jar. As the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary, the hunt for these rare coins is more exciting than ever. Grab a magnifying glass and start searching—you could be holding a $14,000 surprise!
FAQs
What is a Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar?
It’s a 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar from a Cheerios cereal promotion with a unique reverse design, featuring detailed eagle tail feathers.
How much is a Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar worth?
Values range from $4,500 to $29,900, with a recent 2025 auction at $14,000, depending on condition and grading.
How do I spot a Cheerios Reverse coin?
Look for a 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar with sharp, detailed eagle tail feathers and a raised central line, unlike smoother regular coins.
Where can I find a Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea Dollar?
Check pocket change, bank coin rolls, old collections, or coin shops. Some have been found in circulation or dealer boxes.
How do I sell a Cheerios Reverse coin?
Get it graded by PCGS or NGC, then sell through reputable auction houses, coin dealers, or verified platforms like eBay.
