1879 Stella Gold $4: Coiled Hair 

The 1879 Stella Gold $4 with Coiled Hair is a rare and highly sought-after coin among collectors. Here's some information about this coin: 

Design: The Stella Gold $4 coin was proposed as an international coinage standard by John A. Kasson, a U.S. Representative. The obverse features a bust of Liberty facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with "LIBERTY."  

The hair is styled in a coil, hence the name "Coiled Hair." The reverse depicts a five-pointed star with the denomination "ONE STELLA" and the date. 

1. Purpose: The Stella was intended to facilitate international trade and commerce, particularly with European countries where the gold standard was prevalent. The denomination of $4 was chosen to correspond to the metric system, with one Stella being equivalent to four U.S. dollars or five French francs.

1. Mintage: The Stella Gold $4 was only minted in 1879 and 1880, with a total mintage of just over 400 coins across all varieties. The Coiled Hair variety is the rarest among the Stellas, with a significantly lower mintage compared to the Flowing Hair variety.

1. Historical Context: The Stella Gold $4 coinage was part of the United States' efforts to establish an international gold coinage standard. However, the coin was never widely circulated or accepted in commerce, and its production was ultimately discontinued.

1. Collectibility: Due to its rarity and historical significance, the 1879 Stella Gold $4 with Coiled Hair is highly coveted by collectors. Examples in good condition with sharp details and minimal wear command significant premiums at auction and in the numismatic market.

Each coin is a tangible link to the past, a reminder of the sacrifices and struggles of those who came before us, and a symbol of the enduring spirit of freedom and democracy that defines the United States. 

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