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How do I Sell a Stock Certificate That Isn't Worth Anything?

A stock certificate provides authentication of ownership for publicly traded shares. While the legal document can be aesthetically pleasing to they eye, in many cases the value of the shares is minuscule to none. De-listed stocks are one example of shares that no longer trade on an exchange and therefore do not have value tied into the company assets. Before assuming the certificate is worthless, contact all your possible buyers. Those shares of United States Automotive Corp. or Edison Phonograph Toy Manufacturing still have value in certain groups apart from the named company on the certificate.

Things You'll Need

Stock certificate
Pricing guide

Instructions

- 1
  Investigate whether or not the company is publicly traded. Stocks frequently change their ticker symbols for any number of reasons, including a company takeover or because the stock is listed on a different exchange. The certificate could still have high latent intrinsic value because the owner is unaware of the listing change.
- 2
  Purchase price guides and books about antique certificates. Scripophily is the study and hobby of collecting stocks and bonds. Publications such as the "Collector's Guide to Old U.S. Stocks and Bonds" by Andrew Hall Sr. provide insight into how certificates are graded for extrinsic value. Other antique certificate pricing books can be found at Amazon and Abebooks.
- 3
  Contact an antique stock certificate dealer directly. Scripophily.com and Antiquestocks.com are two examples of the plethora of businesses willing to purchase your stock certificates directly. Experienced companies can accurately access the value of your certificate based on demand, rarity, condition and any distinct features. Most companies allow you to scan and upload the document digitally for their appraisal.
- 4
  Join an antique certificate collecting forum or group. Facebook and Twitter are two social media networks that have scripophily followers. Knowledgeable members will be able to assist you in estimating the price of certificates. Asking questions about your specific certificate will put you into contact with potential buyers.
- 5
  Become a member of a professional organization. The Washington Historical Autograph and Certificate Organization or WHACO provides many resources to its active members. Some of their services include listings of dealers, trade shows and historical transaction prices for specific antique stock certificates. Large professional associates will have more members and businesses registered than smaller hobby groups.
- 6
  Auction the certificate yourself. Various online auctions exist such as Ebay. Of course, you must know what makes your particular certificate valuable in order to convey this in an ad. Selling an antique certificate to the highest bidder at an online auction without researching its worth could result in a lower sale price.

Collecting Memorabilia