A surprising discovery has stunned coin collectors—a 2000 Sacagawea Dollar with the Cheerios reverse found tucked away in an old wallet.
This rare coin, one of the most prized modern U.S. coins, has been valued at around $18,500 due to its scarce design and collector demand. Let’s explore the history, features, and real value of this unique find.
What Is the “Cheerios” Sacagawea Dollar?
In 2000, the U.S. Mint partnered with General Mills to promote the newly released Sacagawea “Golden Dollar.” Millions of Cheerios boxes contained a 2000 Lincoln cent, and about 5,500 lucky boxes also included a 2000 Sacagawea dollar.
What makes some of these dollars extremely valuable is the prototype reverse design. Known as the “Cheerios reverse,” this version features enhanced detail in the eagle’s tail feathers.
Unlike the standard issue, these prototype coins stand out for their crisp design elements, which collectors quickly recognized as special.
Why This Coin Is So Valuable
The value comes down to scarcity and collectability. Out of the 5,500 Sacagawea Dollars distributed in Cheerios boxes, only a small fraction have been confirmed to have the prototype reverse. These are cataloged by specialists as FS-902 Cheerios Dollars.
At auctions, certified high-grade examples have fetched anywhere from several thousand dollars to five figures. That’s why a strong example discovered recently in a wallet was estimated at $18,500—a life-changing find for the lucky holder.
Quick Facts About the Cheerios Sacagawea Dollar
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year/Mint | 2000-P |
| Nickname | Cheerios Dollar / FS-902 |
| Distribution | About 5,500 in Cheerios cereal boxes |
| Special Feature | Prototype eagle tail feathers with extra detail |
| Estimated Value | Ranges from several thousand dollars up to $18,500 or more in high grade |
| Packaging | Originally sealed in Cheerios-branded holders |
| Rarity | Very few confirmed; highly collectible |
How to Identify a Cheerios Dollar
- Check the reverse design: Look closely at the eagle’s tail feathers. The Cheerios reverse shows more intricate feather detail than regular issues.
- Date and mintmark: The coin should be a 2000-P.
- Packaging (if available): Original Cheerios packaging strengthens authenticity and value, though many coins were removed years ago.
- Professional certification: Sending the coin to grading services like PCGS or NGC for official authentication is crucial for top-dollar sales.
How to Protect Its Value
- Never clean the coin. Cleaning can reduce its value by thousands of dollars.
- Handle with care. Hold by the edges to avoid fingerprints.
- Seek professional grading. Authentication and grading not only confirm rarity but also maximize potential resale value.
The 2000 Sacagawea Cheerios Dollar is one of the most fascinating modern U.S. coin rarities. With only a handful confirmed and collectors eager to own them, it’s no wonder a recently discovered example has been valued at $18,500.
If you have old coins tucked away in drawers, wallets, or even cereal boxes from decades ago, it might be worth taking a closer look—you could be holding a modern treasure.
FAQs
How many Cheerios Sacagawea Dollars exist?
Approximately 5,500 were distributed, but only a small number are confirmed to have the rare prototype reverse.
Can I still find one today?
It’s unlikely, but possible. Some may remain in old collections, wallets, or original Cheerios packaging.
What’s the best way to sell one?
Have the coin professionally graded, then consider auction houses or reputable coin dealers who specialize in rare U.S. coins.