Shopping Cart
The US$1 coin will be minted by the United States Mint in 2026 as part of the Native American $1 Coin Program, established in 2008. The program annually celebrates the contributions of Native Americans to the development of American state and society. The obverse of the coin invariably features the portrait of Sacagawea, a young Shoshone woman who has become a symbol of this series since its launch in 2000.
Image Description
The obverse of the coin retains the classic image of Sacagawea with a baby on her back, a work by sculptor Gladys Cultew-Weatherford, which first appeared on the 2000 gold dollar. The 2026 reverse, as in every year of the program, features a new image that reflects a specific theme or prominent figure from the world of Native Americans.
Obverse
- Main image: Sacagawea with the infant Jean-Baptiste in her arms (a classic portrait of the series).
- Inscriptions: LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST.
- Design impression: "quiet strength" and maternal dignity - a warm, human image that contrasts with the officiality of state symbols on many other U.S. coins.
Reverse - Polly Cooper / Oneida Allies at Valley Forge
- Subject: Polly Cooper (Oneida) with a basket - the moment she passes on a gift of corn; George Washington is next to him, holding his hat as a gesture of gratitude and respect.
- Meaning of the scene: symbolizes the generosity, courage, and sacrifice of the Oneida people during the American Revolutionary War (in particular, their support of the Continental Army at Valley Forge).
- Inscriptions on the reverse: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, POLLY COOPER, $1, ONEIDA ALLIES AT VALLEY FORGE.
Historical context
Sacagawea (c. 1788–1812 or 1884, according to various accounts) was a Lemgo-Shoshon woman who accompanied the Lewis and Clark Expedition to the Pacific Coast in 1804–1806. She served as an interpreter and guide, which was crucial to the success of this first American transcontinental exploration expedition. Sacagawea has become a symbol of the contributions of women and Native Americans to American history. The Native American $1 Coin Program selects a new theme each year, reflecting the achievements, culture, and traditions of various Native American peoples in the United States, from medicine and agriculture to art and diplomacy.
Numismatic Significance
The Native American Dollar series combines artistic value with a powerful cultural and educational message. The program's coins are actively collected in the United States and abroad. The annual change of the reverse encourages the formation of complete thematic collections. The 2026 coin continues the tradition of honoring Native Americans and is a testament to the United States' commitment to preserving and promoting the diversity of its cultural heritage.