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.