Baldwin-United (Piano company, now owed by Gibson) Stock Certificate
Baldwin-United (Piano company, now owed by Gibson) Stock Certificate
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Are the certificates authentic?
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 Baldwin-United Corporation stock certificate from 1985 features a blue border and a vignette of Dwight Hamilton Baldwin, the company’s founder. Baldwin, known for his contributions to the piano and organ manufacturing industry, is depicted on the certificate, symbolizing the company’s origins and heritage.
Baldwin-United was established in 1862 as D.H. Baldwin & Company, initially focusing on piano and organ manufacturing. Under Baldwin’s leadership, the company gained a reputation for producing high-quality musical instruments. Over the decades, Baldwin expanded its product line and ventured into other industries, including insurance and financial services. By the mid-20th century, Baldwin had become a diversified conglomerate, rebranding as Baldwin-United Corporation in 1977 .
Despite its early successes, Baldwin-United faced significant financial difficulties in the early 1980s. The company struggled with debt from its aggressive expansion into the financial sector, leading to one of the largest bankruptcies in U.S. history in 1983. Baldwin-United’s assets were subsequently sold off, and the company ceased to exist in its original form.
Today, Baldwin’s legacy lives on through its musical instrument division, which continues to produce pianos under the Baldwin name, now owned by Gibson Guitar Corporation
Materials and care
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.
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