Save your cancelled stock certificates if you have any. They may have a new value. There are only a few companies left that print paper certificates; the rest keep digital records. Old certificates may have unusual designs, mini artwork, and autographs by important executives, and they represent our history. A record price was paid for an 1880s Standard Oil Co. certificate signed by John D. Rockefeller. Years ago we sent paper certificates for one share of Playboy or Disney stock as unusual gifts. We framed our certificates for original McDonald’s stock and for the later offering that was signed by Ray Kroc, founder of the company (he didn’t sign the first shares). Each canceled certificate is worth several hundred dollars today.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo: Businessweek.com, Disney