Exemplar, n.
Etymology: [L. exemplar, exemplum: cf. F. exemplaire. See Example, and cf. Examper, Sampler.]
1. A model, original, or pattern, to be copied or imitated; a specimen; sometimes; an ideal model or type, as that which an artist conceives. Such grand exemplar as make their own abilities the sole measure of what is fit or unfit. South.
2. A copy of a book or writing. [Obs.] Udall.
1 other Webster entry under this spelling
Exemplar, a.
Exemplary. [Obs.] The exemplar piety of the father of a family. Jer. Taylor.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for exemplar; he lists it under example.
Where he writes about it:
In its application to a person or thing, exemplar can scarcely be distinguished from example; but example is most frequently used for an act, or course of action, for which exemplar is not used; as, one sets a good (or a bad) example. — from example