In Search of the Perfect Vignette...
We've collected stock & bond certificates off and on since about 2001. Mostly
we procure them through eBaytm or via private collectors, both
domestic and foreign. These documents may be cancelled (transferred or
cashed-out), "specimen" printings for approval by the issuing companies,
certificates that were never issued, or issued but uncancelled certificates
from companies that went belly-up. There are many thousands of different
issues.
This collecting medium falls under the more general category of "scripophily",
and it only got started in the 1970's in Europe. It is becoming quite popular
here in America over the last few years -- judging from the escalation of
prices paid for the issues.
We collect these articles because of the beautiful intaglio printed artwork
seen in their decorative border scrollwork and central vignettes -- the
engraved pictures that appear on most of the certificates. In particular, we
love the ones that show allegorical figures: ancient gods or goddesses in
various poses and aspects. We do have our favorites...
