When the new dollar coin came into circulation last spring, it was supposed to spark a small revolution.

But local bankers and shop owners say that the coin's size, weight and striking resemblance to a piece of foil-wrapped chocolate have kept it from becoming the Square's currency of choice.

The dollar coin was designed to replace the ill-fated Susan B. Anthony coin, which has been a thorn in the side of the U. S. Mint since it started producing the coin in 1979.

Unlike the Anthony dollar--which was easily mistaken for a quarter and quickly fell out of favor with the public--the new coin was intended to correct past missteps.

With its golden color and portrait of Sacagawea, Lewis and Clark's Native American guide, the coin was supposed to stand out from other pocket change.

But despite the Mint's efforts, local bankers say that the coin simply doesn't appeal to the general public.

The golden coin was only in high demand for about three weeks last spring, says Vilma Pugh, associate vice president at Cambridgeport Bank.

"It's just not very popular anymore," Pugh says. "People seem to have realized that the coins are not very comfortable to use."