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Auction: 25360 - The 360th Anniversary Sale
Lot: 35

STANDARD OIL COMPANY CERTIFICATE SIGNED BY JOHN D. ROCKEFELLER

Framed Standard Oil Company Certificate, No. 267, dated February 4, 1881, issuing 192 shares to W. G Warden. Document Signed "John D. Rockefeller" as company president. Vignettes of the U.S Capitol and semi-nude "Standard Bearer" with sword and flag. Rockefeller signs boldly lower right, while H.M. Flagler signs lower left as company secretary left.
25.5cm x 14cm [frame: 76.2cm x 48.3cm].
Collection of this lot is recommended.
Matted with an image of Rockefeller and attractively framed (although some damage/missing details to the borders), certificate very fine.

Early in his business career John D Rockefeller (1839-1937) wisely avoided the risks of drilling for oil, and realized the potential of the oil refining business. By following this strategy he became synonymous with big oil in the United States, creating a virtual distribution and refining monopoly, and forcing shippers to offer his company rebates and discounts. Smaller oil refiners had difficulty competing and were bought out by Standard Oil. The sellers often received shares, just like this one. Eventually Rockefeller controlled almost 90% of US refineries. When anti-monopoly laws were passed to preserve competition, Rockefeller formed Standard Oil Trust to work around them. He became the world's first billionaire. Standard Oil Trust certificates signed by Rockefeller are highly collectible; early Standard Oil certificates like this one are rarer still.

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Estimate
£3,000 to £5,000

Starting price
£1666