Scripophily

[citation needed] Today, there are thousands of collectors worldwide in search of scarce, rare, and popular stock and bond certificates.

[citation needed] Whether they are private investors or business people, many collectors enjoy scripophily as a hobby, while others consider it a good form of investment.

Others prefer the beauty of older stock and bond certificates that were printed in various colors with fancy artwork and ornate engravings.

[citation needed] Many autograph collectors engage in scripophily, looking for certificates signed by historic or well-known figures.

The color, paper, signatures, dates, stamps, cancellations, borders, pictures, vignettes, industry, stockbroker, name of company, transfer agent, printer, and holder name are all of interest to scripophilists.

[citation needed] Many companies either were never successful or went bankrupt, so that their certificates became worthless pieces of paper until the hobby of scripophily began.

Ezekiel Air Ship stock certificate
Columbia Pictures