At over 125 years old the letter of exchange / promisory note (not really sure) is in remarkable condition. Dated London 2nd August 1881.
This is an original duplicate copy and the original copy was sent on 3rd August 1881. It is all signed in ink.
It has been folded and on the top fold there is some faint discolouration due to age, otherwise it is in good condition.
A rare slice of Australian history from the 19th century.
Please see the pictures.
Design
Scripophily, the collecting of old stocks, bonds and cheques gained recognition as a hobby around 1970. The word “scripophily” was coined by combining words from English and Greek. The word “scrip” represents an ownership right and the word “philos” means to love.
Today, there are thousands of collectors worldwide (Scripophilists) in search of scarce, rare, and popular stocks and bonds. Collectors who come from a variety of businesses enjoy this as a hobby, although there are many who also consider scripophily a good investment. In fact, over the past several years, the hobby has exploded in popularity.
Many collectors like the historical significance of old certificates. Others prefer the beauty of older pieces that were printed in various colors with fancy artwork and ornate engraving. In recent times, Dot com companies and scandals have been particularly popular issuances.
A recent addition to the hobby is collecting real, live shares issued in one’s name. Common companies that issue stock certificates include Walt Disney, Harley-Davidson, McDonald’s, Starbucks, Google, Ford Motors, Coca-Cola, and Berkshire Hathaway. Again, framing is a popular option for these shares.
Many autograph collectors are found in this field, looking for signed certificates from John D. Rockefeller of Standard Oil Company, Henry Charles Carey of the Franklin Fire Insurance Company, Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, Atari Corporation, Eddie Rickenbacker as president of Eastern Air Lines, Tucker Corporation and many others.
Australia has its share of notable signatories also.
History
A Time In Australian History When:
Marcus Clarke (24 April 1846 – 2 August 1881) who was an Australian novelist and poet, best known for his novel “For The Term Of His Natural Life” dies at the age of 35.
Zulu wins the Melbourne Cup.
The population of Australia was 2,250,194
The Art Gallery of South Australia opened by Prince Albert Victor, Duke of Clarence.
A month after this cheque was signed William Jolly was elected first Lord Mayor of Brisbane.
*All details taken from Wikipedia for educational purposes only.