In the year 2000, something unexpected happened in breakfast cereal boxes across America: people began finding shiny new dollar coins tucked inside their Cheerios. At first glance, these coins seemed like simple promotions to raise awareness about the brand-new Sacagawea dollar. But collectors would soon discover that one version of this coin—the 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar with the “Cheerios Reverse”—wasn’t just a novelty. It was a numismatic treasure. What started as a marketing campaign turned into one of the most intriguing modern coin stories in U.S. Mint history. Today, this rare variety is worth thousands—and its value continues to climb.
The Coin: 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar with Cheerios Reverse
This special coin is a version of the 2000-P Sacagawea dollar, struck at the Philadelphia Mint and placed in Cheerios cereal boxes as part of a joint promotion between the U.S. Mint and General Mills. Out of 10 million cereal boxes, only 5,500 contained an actual dollar coin (others included just cents). But here’s where it gets fascinating: those 5,500 dollar coins featured a prototype reverse design—one that included enhanced tail feather details on the eagle that weren’t used in the final production design. These added feather veins gave the eagle a more defined and textured look. For years, collectors didn’t even realize these “Cheerios dollars” were different. It wasn’t until 2005 that numismatists closely compared one with a regular Sacagawea dollar and noticed the distinct feather detail. That’s when the coin world took notice—and prices soared.
Why It’s So Valuable
The Cheerios Reverse Sacagawea dollar is valuable because it’s rare, visually distinct, and has a provenance tied to a major national promotion. Only a few examples have been confirmed, and many remain unrecognized in private hands—possibly still sitting in drawers or cereal box keepsakes. One graded MS-68 by PCGS sold for over $10,000, and even lower-grade examples regularly fetch $3,000 to $7,000 at auction. Because these coins were handed out in uncirculated condition, many are still in excellent shape, further increasing their value to collectors.
The 2000-P Sacagawea “Cheerios dollar” proves that treasures can come from the most unlikely places—even a cereal box. Its rarity, unique design features, and fun origin story make it a must-have for modern U.S. coin collectors. If you think you might have one, don’t spend it—and don’t try to clean it. Get it authenticated and graded. This coin is more than just change—it’s a breakfast-born fortune waiting to be discovered.
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if I have a Cheerios Sacagawea dollar?
Look closely at the eagle’s tail feathers on the reverse. The Cheerios version has sharper, more detailed veins than the standard 2000-P Sacagawea dollar. For certainty, have it examined by a professional grading service.
2. How many Cheerios dollars exist?
Only about 5,500 were distributed, and far fewer have been officially identified. This makes it one of the rarest modern dollar coins in circulation.
3. Is the Cheerios dollar made of gold?
No, it’s not gold. The coin has a manganese-brass alloy that gives it a golden color, but it contains no actual gold.
4. Can I find one in circulation?
Extremely unlikely. These were distributed in 2000 and most are now in private collections or coin vaults. Your best bet is checking old promotional packaging or family keepsakes.
