Coin collecting is full of surprises. A rare Sacagawea dollar just sold for $690,000! What made it so valuable? It has something called an “experimental rim,” and only three of these coins are known to exist. Let’s find out why this small golden coin is so special.
What Makes This Coin So Unique?
At first look, it may seem like any other Sacagawea dollar. These coins were first made in the year 2000. They show Sacagawea, a Native American woman, holding her baby. But the difference is in the edge of the coin. This one has a rare kind of rim.
During early tests, the U.S. Mint tried different rim designs. These were experiments to check how the coin would look and last. Most of those test coins were never released. They were either destroyed or kept by the Mint.
Today, only three coins with this kind of rim are known. That makes it super rare—even more than some older rare coins.
How Was This Coin Found and Sold?
The coin was sent secretly to a popular coin auction company. People who love rare coins were excited even before the sale started.
When the auction began, bidders from around the U.S. and even other countries joined. Some were in the room, others online. The bidding went high fast. When it ended, the final price was a huge $690,000.
The coin was in perfect condition. It got a grade of MS68 from PCGS, a top coin grading service. That perfect condition helped it sell for so much.
Why Are Experimental Coins So Special?
Coins like this are not made for the public. They are used for testing during coin design. That’s what makes them interesting. These coins give us a peek into how coins are made. When one of these test coins shows up, collectors and historians get very curious.
This special rim shows the coin was part of those early tests. It also shows how the Sacagawea dollar design changed over time.
Are There More Out There?
Only three of these coins are known. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t more hidden somewhere. Maybe someone has one in a drawer or in an old coin roll. It’s possible another one could show up in the future.
Rare coins often appear many years after they were made. Sometimes people find them by accident. So, it’s worth checking your coin collection.
A Win for the Sacagawea Dollar
This sale brings attention to the Sacagawea dollar series. These coins were not very popular when they came out. Many people preferred paper bills. But collectors like these coins now. They enjoy the different versions and rare mistakes. This sale helps the Sacagawea dollar become more famous in the coin world.
Now, it joins other modern coins that have sold for big money.
Final Thoughts
This coin is more than just money. It’s a piece of history. It shows us how coins are made, tested, and sometimes forgotten. If you enjoy collecting or just like stories like this, keep your eyes open. You never know—the next valuable coin could be sitting in your pocket.
FAQs
How many of these coins are known?
Only three exist.
What is special about this dollar coin?
It has an experimental rim.
Was this coin used in daily life?
No, it was a test coin.
Why is the coin so valuable?
Because it’s rare and in top condition.
Can I find one too?
Yes, it’s possible!
Where can i take my coins?