1884 American Express Company Stock Certificate Signed by President James C. Fargo (Signature Certified)

Offered here is an exquisite stock certificate issued by American Express and signed by James C. Fargo in 1884. It features an early vignette of a watchdog—the original company mascot that symbolized trust and security. You will receive the unique item shown in the photos.

James Congdell Strong Fargo (May 5, 1829 – February 8, 1915) was president of the American Express Company for 30 years and the brother of American Express Company and Wells Fargo co-founder, William Fargo. In addition to his pivotal role in positioning American Express as one of the great institutions of American finance, J.C. Fargo is also responsible for the introduction of the traveler’s check. During the late 1880s, Fargo took a trip to Europe on which he became infuriated and frustrated by his difficulty in obtaining cash, despite the fact he was president of American Express and carried traditional letters of credit. Upon his return, Fargo consulted Marcellus Flemming Berry to create a better solution. Berry, who had already invented the express money order in 1882, created the first American Express Traveler’s Cheque under Fargo’s direction, which was launched in 1891 in $10, $20, $50, and $100 denominations.

The expert staff of Olevian Numismatic Rarities unconditionally guarantees the authenticity of every historic document they sell, and all signatures contained therein. A certificate of authenticity will be included with each item. In addition, the signatures have been precertified online by Autograph COA, a leading third-party authentication service. A Precertification Letter will be included with your purchase, which is also eligible to be sent to Autograph COA by you for a full Letter of Certification, for a small additional fee.