The Native American Dollar is a special coin series that celebrates the contributions of Native Americans to the history of the United States. It began in 2009 as a redesign of the earlier Sacagawea Dollar, which was first introduced in 2000. This article will explore the history of these coins, their significance, and the designs featured in each year’s release. Whether you’re a collector or just curious about coins, the Native American Dollar series has a fascinating story to tell.
The Origins of the Native American Dollar
The Native American Dollar was created to honor the rich history and cultural heritage of Native American tribes. Although the Sacagawea Dollar was initially known as a “golden dollar,” it didn’t see much everyday use. However, it became popular among collectors, which paved the way for the Native American Dollar program.
On September 20, 2007, a law was passed that allowed the creation of the Native American Dollar series. This law required that each coin highlight important contributions made by Native Americans throughout history. The coins also feature a unique design change: the date and motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” were moved to the edge of the coin, while the main design appears on the front.
The First Release: 2009
The very first Native American Dollar was released in 2009. This coin honored the “Three Sisters” method of planting, which involves growing squash, corn, and climbing beans together. This technique reflects the cooperative agricultural practices of many Native American tribes. The design shows these three crops, symbolizing the harmony and balance found in nature.
List of Native American Dollar Designs
Here’s a complete list of all the Native American Dollar designs from 2009 through 2026:
| Year | Design | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Three Sisters | Honors the planting of squash, corn, and beans. |
| 2010 | Great Law of Peace | Celebrates the Iroquois Confederacy and peace. |
| 2011 | Wampanoag Treaty | Commemorates the treaty between the Wampanoag and settlers. |
| 2012 | Trade Routes in the 17th Century | Highlights the trading networks among tribes. |
| 2013 | Treaty with the Delawares | Marks the treaty between the Delawares and the U.S. |
| 2014 | Native Hospitality | Showcases the welcoming spirit of Native Americans. |
| 2015 | Mohawk Ironworkers | Honors the contributions of Mohawk workers. |
| 2016 | Code Talkers | Recognizes the Navajo Code Talkers from WWII. |
| 2017 | Sequoyah | Celebrates Sequoyah, the inventor of the Cherokee alphabet. |
| 2018 | Jim Thorpe | Honors Jim Thorpe, a famous Native American athlete. |
| 2019 | American Indians in Space | Highlights Native American contributions to space exploration. |
| 2020 | Elizabeth Peratrovich | Commemorates her anti-discrimination work in Alaska. |
| 2021 | American Indians in the U.S. Military | Honors the military service of Native Americans. |
| 2022 | Ely S. Parker | Celebrates the first Native American to hold a high-ranking government position. |
| 2023 | Maria Tallchief | Recognizes the famous ballet dancer’s contributions. |
| 2024 | 100th Anniversary of Indian Citizenship Act of 1924 | Commemorates the granting of U.S. citizenship to Native Americans. |
| 2025 | Mary Kawena Pukui | Honors the Hawaiian cultural advocate and linguist. |
| 2026 | Oneidas | Celebrates the contributions of the Oneida Nation. |
Collecting Native American Dollars
Collecting these coins can be an exciting hobby. Each design tells a unique story and highlights different aspects of Native American culture. Many collectors focus on obtaining one of each year’s release, while others may look for special editions or high-grade coins.
When starting a collection, it’s important to check the condition of the coins. Coins can range from uncirculated (brand new) to heavily worn. If you’re serious about collecting, consider getting coins graded by professional services like PCGS or NGC to ensure their quality and value.
Conclusion
The Native American Dollar series is a meaningful and educational collection for anyone interested in U.S. currency and Native American history. Each coin not only represents a monetary value but also celebrates the rich cultural heritage and contributions of Native Americans to the nation. As you explore this series, you’ll discover stories that connect the past with the present. Collecting these coins can be a rewarding experience, providing insight into the vibrant history of Native American tribes and their enduring legacy in America.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the Native American Dollar?
The Native American Dollar is a special series of coins that started in 2009, celebrating the contributions of Native Americans to U.S. history. It features unique designs each year that honor different aspects of Native American culture.
2. How many designs are there in the Native American Dollar series?
As of 2026, there will be a total of 18 designs in the Native American Dollar series, each highlighting significant themes or individuals related to Native American history.
3. Are Native American Dollars valuable to collectors?
Yes, Native American Dollars can be valuable, especially if they are in uncirculated condition or have been graded by professional services. The value can vary based on the rarity and demand for specific designs.