The 2013 S Sacagawea Dollar is worth anywhere from $5 in proof condition to over $60 for high-grade specimens found in special sets. While standard circulating quarters or dimes are common, seeing the native imagery and the “S” mint mark on this golden dollar often makes people wonder if they have struck it rich.
History and Design of the 2013 Native American Dollar
The 2013 Sacagawea Dollar is part of the Native American $1 Coin Program, which began in 2009 to honor the contributions made by Native American tribes to the history of the United States. While many people still call them “Sacagawea Dollars” because her image remains on the obverse (the front), the reverse design changes every single year.
If you are unsure about the specific variety you have found, using the best coin identifier app can help you distinguish between the different finishes produced this year. In 2013, the reverse design commemorates the “Delaware Treaty of 1778.” It features a turkey, a howling wolf, and a turtle, representing the clans of the Delaware Tribe.
Because these coins were not released for general circulation through banks, most of the ones you find in your pocket change were likely broken out of collector sets. This scarcity compared to older coins makes them a fun find for everyday Americans. If you want to keep track of your growing collection, the CoinHix app is a great tool to catalog your coins and monitor their market performance.
Understanding the S Mint Mark and Proof Quality
The “S” mint mark on your 2013 dollar indicates that it was struck at the San Francisco Mint. Unlike the “P” (Philadelphia) or “D” (Denver) versions which were made for collectors to purchase in bags and rolls, the “S” version was primarily produced as a “Proof” coin. Proof coins are made using a special process that involves polished blanks and multiple strikes to create a mirror-like finish.
If you find a 2013-S dollar, you will notice it looks significantly different from a standard coin. The background is usually shiny like a mirror, while the raised designs have a frosted, matte appearance. This “Deep Cameo” effect is highly sought after by collectors. You can check the current market trends for these specialized strikes by looking at the 2013 Native American Dollar price data to see how they compare to the Philadelphia issues.
Keep in mind that since these were never meant to spend, their condition is everything. A single scratch or fingerprint can lower the value from a premium price down to just a few dollars. Using professional tools like CoinHix can help you determine if your coin is a standard proof or a rare Enhanced Uncirculated version from a special set.
Current Market Value and Price Guide
The value of a 2013-S Sacagawea Dollar depends heavily on its “grade.” Most proof coins found in the original government packaging will trade for a modest premium. However, coins that are graded by professional services like PCGS or NGC as “Proof 70” (perfect condition) can command much higher prices at auction.
The following table breaks down the typical values you might encounter when researching this coin. For a more detailed breakdown of various grades, you can refer to this 2013 Sacagawea Dollar value guide which covers all mint marks from that year.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Proof 65 (Standard) | $4.50 – $6.00 |
| Proof 69 (Near Perfect) | $12.00 – $18.00 |
| Proof 70 (Perfect) | $45.00 – $75.00 |
| Enhanced Uncirculated (from Set) | $25.00 – $50.00 |
Special Varieties and What to Look For
In 2013, the U.S. Mint also released a “Coin and Currency Set” that included a very special version of the 2013-S dollar. This version has an “Enhanced Uncirculated” finish. Instead of the mirror-like shine of a standard proof, it has a sophisticated combination of frosted and satin finishes across different parts of the design.
These Enhanced Uncirculated coins are much rarer than standard proof coins. Because they were only available in that specific set, they are a primary target for serious collectors. If you believe you have found one of these, it is vital to handle it only by the edges. Any oil from your skin can permanently damage the delicate surface.
Whether you have a standard “S” proof or the rarer enhanced version, knowing your coin’s story is the first step. Utilizing the CoinHix app allows you to stay updated on auction results for these specific varieties, ensuring you never sell a valuable coin for less than it is worth.
FAQ about the 2013-S Sacagawea Dollar
Q: Can I find a 2013-S Sacagawea Dollar in my pocket change?
A: It is possible but very rare. These coins were produced for collectors and sold directly by the Mint. If you find one in circulation, someone likely spent a coin from a collector’s set.
Q: Is the 2013-S Sacagawea Dollar made of real gold?
A: No, despite their “golden” appearance, these coins contain no real gold. They are composed of a pure copper core with an outer layer of manganese brass, which gives them their distinct color.
Q: Where is the mint mark located on the 2013 dollar?
A: Unlike older U.S. coins, the mint mark, year, and the motto “E Pluribus Unum” are inscribed on the edge of the coin. You have to look at the side of the coin to see the “S” mark.