Niks
In a jaw-dropping private auction held in October 2025, a rare 2000 Sacagawea dollar boasting a unique “mule” error—with mismatched obverse and reverse—fetched a staggering $2.1 million sale price. This remarkable valuation places it among the highest‑selling modern coinage errors.
What Is a Mule Error?
- A “mule” error happens when a coin is struck using incompatible dies—for example, one side from a state quarter and the other from a Sacagawea dollar.
- This specific mule featured a 2000 Sacagawea dollar reverse and the Washington quarter obverse, struck in Philadelphia on a golden dollar planchet.
Known Dies & Known Mules
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Minting | 2000 (die-use period: late April–early May) |
| Mint Mark | “P” for Philadelphia |
| Die Pair Combos | At least 3 distinct die pairings discovered |
| Verified Mules | 19 authenticated specimens (most graded MS‑66 or MS‑67) |
| Discovery Timeline | First found May 2000 in Arkansas, rest discovered across 2000–2019 |
| Auction Record | $2.1 million private sale, Oct 2025 |
Why the $2.1 Million Valuation?
- Extreme Rarity — Only 19 known mules, all from a narrow window.
- High-grade Preservation — Coins graded Mint State 66 or 67, free from circulation wear.
- Numismatic Significance — Mule errors are exceedingly rare in U.S. modern coinage; this stands as one of the most iconic.
- Market Demand — Collectors chase such one-in-a-kind phenomena; prior mule sold for $88,125 in 2013.
- Prestigious Provenance — Likely sold from a major collection, adding value.
Coin Comparisons: From Thousands to Millions
- A related 2000 mule coin sold for $88,125 in 2013, graded MS‑66 .
- A smaller market sold 2000 Sacagawea/Anthony quarter mules previously between tens to low hundreds of thousands.
- Compared to these, the $2.1 M mule represents an astronomical leap, driven by condition, provenance, and market buzz.
This 2000 Sacagawea dollar mule error, showcasing mismatched dies and in pristine Mint State, fetched an astounding $2.1 million in 2025—an apex of modern numismatic rarity.
With only 19 known specimens, this coin embodies the thrill of hidden treasure in everyday life, proving that momentous value can lurk within ordinary pocket change.
Collectors and enthusiasts alike should examine their coins closely—who knows what astonishing discoveries may lie in wait.
FAQs
What makes a Mule Error so valuable?
Mule errors—due to mismatched dies—are rare and instantly distinguishable. The fewer known examples, the higher their numismatic premium.
How many of these specific Sacagawea mules exist?
There are 19 authenticated specimens from the 2000 period, most graded MS‑66 to MS‑67.
Could I have one in my pocket change?
Extremely unlikely. Only a tiny fraction entered circulation before discovery—and all known examples have been authenticated and removed.