Yes, you can order dollar coins at most banks, but you'll need to request them in advance
Dollar coins are legal U.S. currency, and your bank can order them for you—but they won't have them sitting in the teller drawer. Most banks keep dollar coins in a vault or order them from the Federal Reserve only when a customer asks. You'll need to call ahead, specify which dollar coin you want (Presidential dollars, Sacagawea dollars, or Native American series), and wait several business days for the order to arrive.
The process is straightforward but not instant. Your bank will place an order with its Federal Reserve branch, which takes time to process and ship. Some banks charge a small fee for this service; others do not. The amount you can order depends on your bank's policies and your account status, though most will accommodate reasonable requests.
Key Takeaways
- Call your bank's main branch or customer service line to request dollar coins; do not expect to walk in and buy them on the spot.
- You will need to specify which type of dollar coin you want, since the Federal Reserve stocks multiple series.
- Orders typically arrive within three to seven business days, depending on your bank's relationship with the Federal Reserve.
- Some banks charge a small fee for ordering dollar coins, while others waive it for account holders.
- You can also withdraw dollar coins from your account if your bank has them in stock, though this is rare.
What types of dollar coins are available to order
The Federal Reserve distributes four main types of dollar coins: Presidential dollars (minted 2007–2016 and 2020), Sacagawea dollars (minted since 2000), Native American series dollars (minted annually since 2009), and Susan B. Anthony dollars (older, minted 1979–1981 and 1999). Most banks can order any of these, though availability depends on what the Federal Reserve currently stocks.
Presidential dollars are the most commonly requested because they were heavily promoted when they were in production. Sacagawea and Native American dollars are still minted and are easier to order. If you want a specific year or design, tell your bank which one when you call—they will pass that request to the Federal Reserve, though the Fed may not have that exact year in stock.
Susan B. Anthony dollars are older and less commonly ordered. If you want those specifically, ask your bank whether they can source them; the answer depends on what the Federal Reserve has available in its inventory.
How to place an order at your bank
Contact your bank by phone or visit a branch in person. Ask to speak with someone in the operations or customer service department—tellers usually cannot place these orders themselves. Tell them you want to order dollar coins, specify the type and quantity, and ask whether there is a fee.
Your bank will need your account number and may ask how many coins you want. Most banks will order anywhere from a roll (25 coins) to several rolls without issue. If you want a very large quantity, the bank may need to special-order from the Federal Reserve, which can take longer.
Ask for a timeframe: most banks will tell you the order will arrive in three to seven business days. Some banks will call you when the coins arrive; others will simply hold them at the branch for you to pick up. Confirm which method your bank uses before you hang up.
Fees and minimum order amounts
Fees vary by bank. Some charge nothing to order dollar coins for account holders. Others charge a flat fee of $5 to $10 per order, or a small per-coin fee. A few banks have minimum order amounts—for example, requiring you to order at least one roll (25 coins).
Ask about the fee structure when you call. If your bank charges a fee and you only want a few coins, it may not be worth it. In that case, you can try a different bank or look for dollar coins in circulation, though this is uncommon since most people do not spend them.
Some credit unions and smaller regional banks have different policies than large national banks, so the fee and availability may differ depending on where you bank.
Why dollar coins are hard to find in everyday use
Dollar coins are legal tender, but they are rarely used in stores or vending machines. Most Americans prefer dollar bills, and many businesses and consumers are unfamiliar with dollar coins. This means dollar coins stay out of circulation—they end up in collections, jars, or bank vaults instead of being spent.
The Federal Reserve still mints dollar coins, but in much smaller quantities than bills. Because demand is low, banks do not stock them. This is why you have to order them rather than simply asking a teller for a handful.
If you want dollar coins for collecting, spending, or using in a specific machine, ordering from your bank is the most reliable way to get them.
Alternatives if your bank cannot order them
If your bank declines to order dollar coins or charges a high fee, you have other options. Some coin dealers and numismatic shops sell dollar coins, though they may charge a premium above face value, especially for rare years or types. Online retailers that specialize in coins can also ship dollar coins to you, but again, expect to pay more than the face value.
Another option is to check with other banks in your area. Larger banks and those with strong Federal Reserve relationships may be more willing to order dollar coins and may charge lower fees. Credit unions sometimes have different policies and may order them at no charge.
If you only need a few coins and do not want to pay a fee, you could ask friends, family, or local collectors whether they have dollar coins they are willing to trade or sell at face value.
What to expect when you pick up your order
When your order arrives, the bank will hold the coins at the branch, usually in a paper roll or bag. You will pick them up during business hours and pay for them at face value (plus any fee the bank charged). The coins will be in circulating condition, meaning they may show wear from handling, though most will look relatively new.
If you ordered a large quantity, ask the bank to count them with you or to provide a receipt showing the exact number. This protects you if there is a discrepancy.
Once you have the coins, you can spend them anywhere that accepts U.S. currency, though most businesses and vending machines are not set up to handle them. Most people who order dollar coins keep them for collecting or specific purposes rather than spending them in everyday transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get dollar coins from the bank?
Most orders arrive within three to seven business days. Some banks may take longer if they need to special-order from the Federal Reserve or if the coins are not in stock. Call your bank to confirm the timeframe for your specific order.
Can I order dollar coins online from my bank?
Some banks allow you to request dollar coins through their website or mobile app, but most require you to call or visit a branch. Check your bank's website or call customer service to see whether online ordering is an option.
What if I want a specific year of Presidential dollars?
Tell your bank which year you want when you place the order. The Federal Reserve may not have that exact year in stock, so your bank will let you know whether it is available. If not, they can usually order a different year or type instead.
Do dollar coins work in vending machines?
Some vending machines accept dollar coins, but many do not. Older machines and those designed only for bills will reject them. Check the specific machine before trying to use a dollar coin.
Is there a limit to how many dollar coins I can order?
Most banks will order reasonable quantities without issue—typically up to several rolls. If you want a very large order, ask your bank whether there is a limit or whether it will take longer to fulfill.