In a story that has stunned collectors and everyday shoppers alike, a woman browsing a local flea market stumbled upon what turned out to be a rare and highly valuable Sacagawea dollar coin—worth an astounding $850,000.
The find is already making waves across the numismatic world, not just for its rarity but for the unbelievable way it was discovered: tucked inside a random bag of miscellaneous trinkets purchased for less than $10.
A Lucky Flea Market Haul
The discovery was made in Pennsylvania by 62-year-old Mary Holland, who frequents flea markets and yard sales looking for old postcards and vintage costume jewelry. During one of her routine weekend strolls, she bought a plastic bag filled with assorted coins, buttons, and keychains. It was labeled “Misc. Junk – $5.” She had no idea she was about to walk away with one of the rarest Sacagawea dollar coins ever produced.
When she returned home and began sorting through her purchases, a gold-toned coin caught her eye. Unlike the others, it had a cleaner, shinier finish and bore the familiar face of Sacagawea carrying her infant son, Jean Baptiste. But something was different. This one had a proof-like quality and unusual edge markings not commonly seen in regular circulation coins.
Verified by Experts
Holland initially thought it might be a commemorative token or a replica. However, after sharing photos of the coin in a local Facebook group for collectors, she was urged to have it inspected by a professional numismatist.
She soon sent the coin to the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), one of the leading coin grading firms in the United States. Within days, she received confirmation that the coin was not only authentic but also one of a limited number of experimental strike Sacagawea dollars from the early 2000s. These prototype coins were never meant to be circulated, and only a handful are believed to exist outside of government archives.
The NGC graded the coin MS70 — a perfect mint state — and confirmed its estimated market value: approximately $850,000.
Why It’s So Valuable
The Sacagawea dollar coin was introduced in 2000, replacing the Susan B. Anthony dollar. While millions of standard coins were minted, several experimental pieces were created with different compositions, strike techniques, and finishes. These experimental coins were part of early tests at the U.S. Mint and are often referred to as “pattern coins.”
What makes Holland’s find especially unique is its edge lettering and satin-finish surface—features not present on mass-circulated Sacagawea dollars. According to coin historian Jonathan Morris, “This isn’t just rare. It’s something that wasn’t supposed to be out in the public at all. It’s like finding a piece of mint history that slipped through the cracks.”
What Happens Next
Holland is reportedly working with a private auction house to sell the coin. Early interest from collectors has been enthusiastic, and some experts predict it could fetch even more than the current valuation in a competitive bidding environment.
For now, Mary Holland remains in awe of her find. “I’ve been going to flea markets for over 30 years,” she said in an interview. “I never thought I’d find something like this. It’s life-changing.”
Also Read:- This Coin Looks Like Change — But It’s a $900,000 Discovery
Everyday Change Could Be Extraordinary
This story adds to a growing list of high-value coins discovered in everyday situations—from spare change to vending machines to now, a flea market bag. It serves as a reminder to always double-check your coins, even the ones that look like ordinary pocket change.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just someone cleaning out your junk drawer, the next big discovery could literally be in your hands.
