1879 Stella - Coiled Hair
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
2.1 million PR67 Cameo NGC - Presidio Collection, Part II Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1879 Stella - Coiled Hair is a proof dollar from the Stella Four Dollars 1879-1880 series. With a mintage of 20, this is an extremely rare issue — the scarcer of two mint variants, with 4% of total production. The obverse features Liberty with flowing hair or coiled hair, designed as a proposal for metric-compatible gold coinage and the reverse displays a five-pointed star containing the denomination FOUR DOL.. Struck during the Gilded Age of rapid industrialization and the great silver debates, when monetary policy shaped elections and economic destiny. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Estimated market value is approximately $1063K. Weighing 7 grams, 22 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #88058. Individual coins have sold for over $2 million.
Rarity Notes
Extremely Rare with only 12-15 known examples. Judd-1638, Pollock-1838
External References
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