Determining The Value Of Old Stocks And Bonds
There are many factors that help determine the value of your old stocks and bonds. Condition of course is always an important consideration - with share certificates catalogued as 'uncirculated' or 'extremely fine' being valued at as much as ten times the price of the same stock in fair or poor condition.
The age of your item is also important - the general rule of thumb is that the older your certificates the more valuable they are likely to be. Another factor to bear in mind is the original face value of your bond - the greater the amount the more you are likely to realise this time around. The feel and look of your stocks and bonds is also significant. Good quality paper with appropriate watermarking is the most desirable.
Many stocks carry vignette illustrations and incorporate calligraphic lettering and ornate coloured borders - generally speaking, the more decorative your bonds the more valuable they are likely to be. The engraving process employed is also significant - lithographed specimens usually demand a greater price than wood cuts. Other factors include the nature of the company issuing the stock, the printer responsible for producing the bond and the identity of the individual or company purchasing the stock.
Given the vast numbers of stock and bonds in circulation many scripophily enthusiasts choose to specialise in certain collecting areas. The most lucrative categories include railroads, automobiles, mining and foreign issues such as Tsarist Russia and Imperial China. Autograph collectors also keep a watchful eye on the scripophily market as signed certificates by famous people also appear from time to time. Thus, early American Express company stock signed by William Fargo (of Wells Fargo fame) can sell for about $750. Items signed by Fargo can make less of course, American Express is one of the companies more keenly sought by collectors.
Other stock certificates carry the signatures of such luminaries as J.P. Morgan, John Paul Getty and the great Harry Houdini. For more modern tastes, a Planet Hollywood stock certificate endorsed by Demi Moore, Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger could be yours for about $100.
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