A Shocking Discovery in Spare Change
Imagine checking a parking meter’s coin return and finding a coin worth nearly $900,000. That’s exactly what happened in a small Ohio town in May 2025. Someone stumbled upon a rare 2000-P Mule Sacagawea Dollar, a coin so unique that collectors everywhere are going wild over the find. How did this ultra-rare coin end up in everyday circulation? And could there be more out there waiting to be discovered?
Let’s break down what makes this coin so special—and how you might find one too.
What Is the Mule Sacagawea Dollar?
The 2000-P Mule Sacagawea Dollar is a fascinating minting mistake. Instead of having Sacagawea’s face on the front like normal dollar coins, it has the front of a Washington quarter—complete with George Washington’s portrait and the words “Quarter Dollar.”
But the reverse side still features the Sacagawea dollar’s eagle design and its distinct golden color.
This kind of mistake, known as a “mule error,” happens when mismatched coin dies (the metal stamps used to make coins) are used together by accident. Only about 20 of these coins are known to exist, all minted at the Philadelphia Mint (marked with a “P”).
One example sold for $194,062.50 in a 2024 auction, and another is rumored to have sold privately for close to $900,000.
The $900,000 Parking Meter Coin
In May 2025, a person using a parking meter in Ohio found something unusual in the coin return: a golden dollar with the front of a quarter. Not realizing its true value at first, the finder took it to a local coin dealer. Experts authenticated it as a genuine 2000-P Mule Sacagawea Dollar, grading it MS-66 (a near-perfect condition).
Because of its rarity and condition, experts believe it could fetch up to $900,000 at auction. Some speculate that it came from an old collection or was unknowingly spent by someone unaware of its value. The story sparked nationwide interest—with people checking parking meters, coin jars, and pocket change in hopes of getting lucky.
How to Identify a 2000-P Mule Sacagawea Dollar
Want to try your luck? Here’s how to spot one of these rare treasures:
- Front of the coin: Shows George Washington with the words “United States of America” and “Quarter Dollar.”
- Back of the coin: Features the eagle design from the Sacagawea dollar.
- Color: Golden, like a typical Sacagawea dollar—not silver like a quarter.
- Mint mark: Look for a “P” near the year 2000.
- Condition: Coins with fewer scratches or wear are more valuable.
If you think you’ve found one, do not clean it—that can lower the coin’s value. Instead, take it to a professional coin grading service like PCGS or NGC to verify its authenticity.
Quick Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 2000 |
| Mint Mark | “P” (Philadelphia Mint) |
| Error Type | Washington quarter front + Sacagawea back |
| Known Examples | Approximately 20 |
| Top Price Sold | Up to $900,000 (private sale reported) |
Are These Coins Really Worth $900,000?
The short answer: yes—sometimes. While the highest confirmed auction sale was about $194,000, there are reliable reports of private sales reaching $900,000 for pristine examples. Because only a handful exist and demand is growing, prices are likely to continue rising.
In June 2025, social media posts and collector forums exploded with excitement over the parking meter discovery, urging people everywhere to double-check their pocket change.
Start Your Coin Hunt Today
The 2000-P Mule Sacagawea Dollar proves that life-changing treasures can still be found in everyday places. Whether it’s a parking meter, a coin jar, or spare change from the store, one small discovery could turn into a six-figure payday.
Grab a magnifying glass, dig through your coins, and keep an eye out. Your next dollar could be worth more than a house!
FAQs
1. What exactly is a “mule” coin?
A mule coin is created when mismatched dies (coin designs) are mistakenly used together, producing a coin with different designs on each side.
2. Why is the 2000-P Mule Sacagawea Dollar so rare?
Only about 20 were accidentally minted, making it one of the rarest and most valuable modern U.S. coins.
3. How do I know if I have this coin?
Look for a golden dollar with George Washington on the front and the Sacagawea eagle on the back. Check for the “P” mint mark and compare it to standard coins.
4. Can I clean the coin before showing it to a dealer?
No—cleaning lowers the value. Always keep rare coins in their original, unaltered condition.