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Lionel (Toy Trains) Corporation Stock Certificate from 1960s

Lionel (Toy Trains) Corporation Stock Certificate from 1960s

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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 orange, crisp stock certificate from the Lionel Corporation, an infamous toy train manufacturer. Dated mid 1960s, this certificate has been issued and cancelled. 

The Lionel Corporation, founded in 1900 by Joshua Lionel Cowen in New York City, began as an electrical novelties company before becoming renowned for its toy trains and model railroads. Cowen’s first electric train, The Electric Express, debuted in 1901 and was initially designed as a display for toy stores. The train’s popularity led Lionel to focus on manufacturing model electric trains for consumers.


The company’s sales peaked in the 1950s, selling $25 million worth of trains annually. However, the 1960s brought challenges, leading to diversification attempts and management turnovers. In 1969, Lionel sold its toy train product line to General Mills but retained the Lionel name. The company continued to operate as a holding company for toy stores until 1993.


Today, Lionel continues to produce model trains under the name Lionel, LLC, which is headquartered in Concord, North Carolina. The company is privately held, with ownership split between Guggenheim Partners (80%) and Neil Young (20%). While there have been rumors about Lionel’s financial status over the years, the company has persevered and continues to manufacture trains, both for the short and long term. Lionel remains a private company today. 

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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