Numismatic

2004-S Sacagawea Dollar Gem Proof

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The 2004 Sacagawea dollar stands out as a beautiful example of modern United States coinage, struck with a brilliant proof finish at the San Francisco Mint. This coin features a distinctive golden appearance, achieved through a specialized metal composition. Its outer layers, which contain a blend of copper, zinc, manganese, and nickel, are bonded directly to a core of pure copper. As an official sovereign coin, its face value of one dollar is fully backed by the United States government. On the obverse, artist Glenna Goodacre depicts the Shoshone woman Sacagawea looking over her shoulder, carrying her young child, Jean Baptiste, on her back. This side of the coin displays the inscriptions LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, the year 2004, and the S mint mark. The reverse, designed by Thomas D. Rogers, features an eagle soaring through the air, surrounded by stars. The inscriptions on this side include UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, and the denomination, ONE DOLLAR. The proof manufacturing process gives this coin a sharp contrast, highlighting the detailed design elements against a mirror-like background.