An 1880 Coiled Hair $4 Stella, graded Proof 67, realized $2.28 million at a recent auction, marking a significant event in the numismatic community. This sale underscores the enduring allure and value of rare U.S. coinage among collectors and investors.

Auction Highlights

The auction, held from August 26 to 31, 2025, featured several notable sales:

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  1880 Coiled Hair $4 Stella: Achieved $2.28 million, leading the event.

  
  


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  1879 Liberty Head Quintuple Stella: Sold for $2.16 million, surpassing its previous record of $1.88 million set in 2016.

  
  


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  1874 Bickford $10 Pattern Coin: Realized $2.04 million, exceeding its prior record of $1.98 million from 2022.

  
  

These sales contributed to a total of $51.17 million from U.S. coins, with the combined total for the event reaching $68.13 million.

The Significance of the 1880 Coiled Hair Stella

The 1880 Coiled Hair Stella is among the rarest U.S. coins, with only nine known examples. Its design features Liberty with tightly coiled hair, distinguishing it from the Flowing Hair variety. Originally intended to facilitate international trade, the Stella series was never approved for circulation, enhancing its rarity and desirability.

Market Implications

The strong performance of these rare coins reflects a robust market for numismatic collectibles. Collectors and investors continue to seek out exceptional pieces, driving prices to new heights. The success of this auction highlights the sustained interest and confidence in the value of rare coins.

Conclusion

The $2.28 million sale of the 1880 Coiled Hair Stella underscores the significant demand for rare and historically significant coins. As the numismatic market continues to thrive, such auctions provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of coin collecting and investment.