1880 Proof Four Dollar Pattern - J-1662, Gilt, Stella

Coin Details

Description

A gilt copper variant of the J-1662 Coiled Hair Stella, distinguished from the plain copper version by its gold-plated surface. This gilt striking of Morgan's Coiled Hair design in an alternative composition presents the iconic braided-coil Liberty portrait under a thin gold wash that lends the coin a rich, warm appearance. The reverse retains the characteristic five-pointed star with ONE STELLA and 400 CENTS denominations. The gilding process was applied after striking, meaning the coin was first struck in copper and then chemically or electrically plated with a thin layer of gold. Gilt Coiled Hair Stellas from 1880 represent the absolute summit of rarity within the Stella series — fewer examples survive in this format than in virtually any other Stella variety. The combination of Morgan's most celebrated portrait, the notorious rarity of 1880 Coiled Hair strikings in any metal, and the added scarcity of the gilt finish makes this among the most desirable patterns in all of American numismatics.

Rarity Notes

R-8. Unique or limited to 2-3 specimens. Among the rarest of all Stella varieties in any composition.

Cross References

Judd J-1662, Pollock P-1862 (Gilt variant)