Trains

Tech & Telco

New York

Media & Gaming

Auto

Retail Stores

Banks & Insurance

Oil & Gas

American Classics

Food & Drink

Skip to product information
1 of 3

American Trotting Register Official Certificate from 1909

American Trotting Register Official Certificate from 1909

Regular price $249.99
Regular price Sale price $249.99
Sale Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.

Are the certificates authentic?

Yes, all of the certificates we sell are authentic stock and bond certificates unless otherwise mentioned in the description. At one point in time, this certificate represented a share of of the company, or a bond receipt. These certificates have been removed from circulation and digitalized, as seen by cancellation holes, stamps and writing on the certificate. We offer these certificates as a collectable item, not a security.  

 

This is an original certificate from the American Trotting Register, dated September 11th, 1909. Printed in brown, it features a vignette of a trotting horse in profile, captured mid-stride within a decorative frame.

This uncancelled piece shows age-appropriate wear and some discoloration consistent with its century-plus age, with visible fold lines that speak to its working history. The certificate bears serial number 87307 and includes the handwritten signature of registrar Frank Best.

In 1919, American harness racing was experiencing its golden age, with the American Trotting Register serving as the official registry for standardbred horses across the United States. Founded in the 1870s, the organization maintained the authoritative stud book that tracked bloodlines and performance records for America's premier harness racing horses. The Register was headquartered in Chicago, positioning it at the heart of the Midwest's thriving horse breeding industry. Wallace Bruce, who established the original trotting register, had recognized that systematic record-keeping would legitimize harness racing as a serious sport rather than mere gambling entertainment. By 1919, the Register's certificates served as proof of a horse's eligibility to compete in major racing circuits, making these documents essential to owners of valuable trotting stock. The organization's meticulous genealogical records helped establish the standardbred as a distinct American breed, separate from the thoroughbreds that dominated flat racing.

Equestrian certificates represent a unique niche in scripophily, combining the artistry of formal document design with America's deep cultural connection to horse racing and breeding. This piece captures the moment when harness racing commanded the same public attention that thoroughbred racing enjoys today, making it both a financial artifact and a window into America's sporting heritage. Offered as a collectible.

Materials and care

Here are some quick tips to preserve your certificate for decades to come. 

Paper quality: Stock certificates were printed on a variety of certificate paper dating back to the mid 1800s. Most of these vintage collectable certificates have signs of used & wear , cancellation holes, pencil / pen writing, stamps, staples, adhesives, slight rips, missing coupons and other features. 

Handling: Always handle the certificate with clean, dry hands or use cotton gloves to avoid transferring oils and dirt from your skin onto the paper.

Storage: Store the certificate in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading. Use acid-free folders or archival-quality plastic sleeves to protect it from moisture, dust, and physical damage.

Framing: If displaying the certificate, use a frame with UV-protective glass to prevent light damage. Ensure the certificate is mounted using acid-free materials to avoid any chemical reactions that could degrade the paper over time.

Avoid Exposure: Keep the certificate away from direct sun, extreme temperatures and humidity, which can cause the paper to warp or deteriorate. Avoid exposing it to pollutants, such as smoke or chemicals, which can cause discoloration.

View full details
Free US Shipping

On orders over $50

Authentic & Original Guarantee

Or your money back

5/5 from 150+ Collectors

Trust us to build their collection

Trusted By Thousands of Collectors

Art with a Backstory

Every Certificate Tells A Story

Turn rare stock and bond certificates into timeless décor. Piece showcases bold colors, engravings, and historic signatures perfect for an office, library, bar, common area, museum & more.

Shop All

Orders Ship Daily

Direct From Wall Street's Archives

Orders are shipped flat with care, tracked & insured with USPS, in a strong, rigid, protected envelope. Daily fulfillment Monday - Thursday from NYC.

Discover 1,000s of Wall Street Collectables