A one‑of‑a‑kind Sacagawea prototype just shattered expectations, landing nearly three‑quarters of a million dollars and shaking up the numismatic scene.
The golden dollar, struck in 2000 and bearing a little‑known test rim, became the star of Heritage Auctions’ spring sale on June 10. Only three pieces with this edge style survive, pushing bidders into a frenzy and lifting the final hammer price to $690,000 — more than double early estimates.
What makes this early Sacagawea prototype coin a collector’s unicorn
At first glance the coin shows the familiar portrait of Sacagawea cradling baby Jean Baptiste, yet the edge tells another story. During pre‑launch trials the U.S. Mint experimented with thicker, high‑relief rims to protect the design. Most of those test strikes were destroyed, so finding one in Mint State 68 condition borders on miraculous. Who wouldn’t chase a prototype that scarce?
Fierce bidding war drives final price far beyond pre‑sale estimates
Collectors from five continents and several institutional buyers hit the phones and online platforms the moment the lot opened. Within two minutes the price leaped from $100,000 to the high six figures. The anonymous consignor, reportedly a Midwest hobbyist, watched in stunned silence as the bids kept climbing.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Year of strike | 2000 (Philadelphia) |
| Edge type | Experimental high‑relief rim |
| Grade | PCGS MS68 |
| Population | 3 known examples |
| Sale venue | Heritage Auctions, Dallas |
| Final price | $690,000 |
The combination of pristine condition, manufacturing history, and whisper‑thin supply explains why the gavel stopped so high.
Why experimental U.S. Mint test pieces command sky‑high premiums today
Prototype coins offer a backstage pass to American coinage. Because they were never meant for pockets or purses, their accidental survival turns every specimen into a time capsule. Consequently, specialists pay blue‑chip prices for Lincoln cent pattern dies, Susan B. Anthony dollar trials, and now the Sacagawea experimental rim. Wondering whether your odds and ends could hide the next sleeper rarity?
Could more experimental rim Sacagawea dollars still be undiscovered in collections
History suggests yes. Ultra‑rare pieces often surface decades later in inherited collections or forgotten bank rolls. Experts advise anyone holding original mint bags or mint sets from 2000 to inspect edges carefully. A small flashlight and a magnifier might reveal the telltale raised lip that just made someone $690K richer.
In the end, this headline sale underscores a simple truth: big treasures can hide in small change. Keep looking — your next trip through the coin jar could be unforgettable.