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Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad Co Stock Certificate from 1950s

Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad Co Stock Certificate from 1950s

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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 a crisp, green stock certificate from the Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad Co issued in the 1950s. Three beautiful vignettes of a train, ship and the city of Pittsburgh. Stamps and cancellation holes present. 

The Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad Company (P&LE), often referred to as the "Little Giant," was a significant player in the American railroad industry, particularly in the Pittsburgh region. Founded on May 11, 1875, the P&LE quickly established itself as a crucial transportation link for the growing steel industry in western Pennsylvania.
The P&LE was initially conceived to provide a direct rail connection between Pittsburgh and Youngstown, Ohio. This strategic route allowed the railroad to tap into the rich coal and steel industries of the region. Despite its relatively short mainline of only 228 miles, the P&LE became known for its efficiency and profitability.
The railroad's primary focus was on freight transportation, particularly serving the numerous steel mills and coal mines in the greater Pittsburgh area. The P&LE's nickname, the "Little Giant," was well-earned due to its ability to move an impressive amount of tonnage despite its small size. This efficiency was largely attributed to its strategic route and strong connections with major industries.
Throughout much of its history, the P&LE operated as a subsidiary of the New York Central Railroad. This relationship provided the smaller railroad with financial stability and access to a broader network. However, the P&LE maintained a degree of independence in its operations and management.
The P&LE   often outperformed larger railroads in terms of profitability per mile of track. This success was reflected in the value of its stock, which made P&LE stock highly sought after by investors.
As with many American railroads, the P&LE faced challenges in the latter half of the 20th century. The decline of the steel industry in Pittsburgh and changes in transportation patterns led to financial difficulties. In 1993, the P&LE ceased operations as an independent entity, with its routes being absorbed by larger railroad companies.

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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