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MAY 25, 2000

The new $1 golden coin bearing the likeness of Sacagawea, a Shoshone guide, interpreter, and aid to the Lewis and Clark exepedition in 1805 is a success. Over 1 billion coins will have been minted by the time the summer rolls around.

When the coin was debuted in January at selected retail establishments, people began lining up all around the country in order to be the first to have a copy of the coin. Almost six months later, the coin's popularity hasn't waned.

But in spite of an effort being made by the US Mint to persuade Americans to use the coins, collectors are hoarding them instead.

Randy'L He-dow Teton was still a student at University of New Mexico when she modeled for the coin. The art history student recently graduated from the University and is often recognized by those who have seen the coin.

However, she recently told Native America Calling she still doesn't have any of the coins herself. She used the one coin she had as change.

Staff and news wires contributed to this report.