The 2009-S Sacagawea "Native American" Proof Dollar is a standout for collectors, primarily because 2009 was the inaugural year for the Native American $1 Coin Program. This series replaced the original "Soaring Eagle" reverse with annually rotating designs honoring Native American history and culture.

The "Three Sisters" Design

The 2009 reverse, designed by Norman E. Nemeth, features the "Three Sisters" agriculture theme. It depicts a Native American woman planting seeds for corn, beans, and squash—three crops that grow symbiotically to improve soil health and yield.

• Mint Mark: "S" (San Francisco Mint)

• Mintage: 2,179,867 (Struck specifically for collectors; not for circulation)

• Composition: A "golden" appearance, though it contains no actual gold. It is manganese-brass clad over a pure copper core.

• Edge Lettering: Unlike the 2000–2008 series, the date and mint mark are incused on the edge rather than the face of the coin.

• Finish: "Gem Proof" indicates a coin with sharp, frosted details and deep, mirror-like fields (Deep Cameo).