If you actually mean the handlebar stem (inserted into the fork column) then you may be missing the expander plug at the bottom of the stem. This this link for pictures and an explanation of how the stem tightens.
Hands Up Or Down Adjusting Handlebar Stem Height on Your Bicycle It is possible that the expander is inside the fork column and can be removed by turning the bike upside down, pushing it out from the bottom or some other more creative methods. If the expander is nowhere to be found a bike shop or bike co-op can help.
I’m happy to help further over the phone at
https://www.6ya.com/expert/donald_f2ed37026a3ac881
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