A United States one-dollar piece, initiated in 2000, features a portrait of Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who aided the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The coin is composed of a manganese brass alloy, giving it a golden color, although it is not made of gold. This distinct hue helps distinguish it from other circulating coinage.
The introduction of the Sacagawea dollar was intended to replace the Susan B. Anthony dollar, which was often confused with the quarter. The subject matter was chosen to honor a Native American figure and promote a more inclusive representation of American history on currency. Its circulation, however, has been limited compared to other denominations.