What if that ordinary-looking $1 coin in your pocket was actually worth $84,000? 
That’s exactly what happened with the 2014-D Sacagawea Mule Dollar, one of the most dramatic modern U.S. Mint errors ever discovered.
Only one confirmed example has surfaced — and experts believe more may be hiding in circulation right now. Here’s your complete guide to this rare mule error and how to identify one.
What Is a “Mule” Coin?
A mule coin occurs when the U.S. Mint accidentally pairs two mismatched dies — the obverse (front) and reverse (back) designs don’t belong together.
These mint blunders are extremely rare, which makes them highly collectible and very valuable.
The 2014-D Sacagawea Mule Has:
- Obverse: Sacagawea carrying her baby
- Reverse: A Presidential Dollar reverse design — NOT the normal eagle/Native-themed reverse
This shocking mismatch created a true modern rarity that stunned collectors worldwide. 
Record-Breaking Auction Sale
Here’s the official sale that made headlines:
Coin: 2014-D Sacagawea/Presidential Dollar Mule
Grade: AU58 NGC (About Uncirculated)
Auction House: Heritage Auctions
Date Sold: April 24, 2021
Final Price: $84,000
This was the “Discovery Coin,” meaning it was the first known example.
How to Spot the 2014-D Sacagawea Mule Dollar
Think you might have one? Follow these steps:
Step 1: Check the Date & Mintmark
Look for 2014-D (Denver Mint).
Step 2: Flip the Coin Over
Does the reverse design match a Presidential Dollar instead of the usual Sacagawea eagle/Native design?
If YES → You may have the mule!
If NO → It’s a standard Sacagawea dollar.
Tip:
The Presidential reverse has distinctive lettering, portrait layout, and stylized rings, making it easy to notice once you know what to look for.
Value Estimate (2025 Market)
Only one confirmed coin has surfaced — but if more appear, expected values are:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Slightly Worn (AU) | $80,000+ |
| Mint State (MS) | $100,000+  |
Collectors and auction houses are prepared to pay top dollar for any new discoveries.
Beware of Counterfeits
Because this coin is extremely valuable, fake versions will appear sooner or later.
If you suspect you found one:
Do NOT clean it
Handle by edges only
Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication
Sell through trusted auction companies like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers
Final Tip
Keep an eye on ANY 2014-D dollar coins — especially rolls or bags from banks.
Mule errors often appear in small accidental batches, so more examples may still be out there waiting to be discovered. 
