© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
1 Stella / 4 Dollars "1880 Stella" Pattern; copper
1880 year| Copper | - | - |
| Issuer | United States |
|---|---|
| Period | Federal republic (1776-date) |
| Type | Pattern |
| Year | 1880 |
| Value | 1 Stella = 4 Dollars (4 USD) |
| Currency | Dollar (1785-date) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#258073 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
A large 5-pointed star in center with "ONE" over "STELLA" over scroll work over "400" over "CENTS" on it. Motto and "DEO EST GLORIA" surround star, and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "FOUR DOL." are at rim.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
E PLURIBUS UNUM
ONE
STELLA
400
CENTS
-DEO EST GLORIA
FOUR DOL.
Engraver: Charles Edward Barber
Edge
Reeded
Interesting fact
The 1880 Stella, also known as the "Copper Stella," was a pattern coin designed by Charles E. Barber, who was the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time. It was never officially released into circulation, but a small number of proof coins were struck and distributed to collectors and mint officials. The coin features a unique design, with a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty on the obverse and a bald eagle on the reverse. The coin's design was meant to showcase the Mint's ability to produce coins with intricate details and high relief, but it was ultimately rejected in favor of a different design. Today, the 1880 Stella is a highly sought-after collector's item, with some examples selling for tens of thousands of dollars.
