October Legends Closing November 1
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/2/2014
Offered is an early and significant 1887 Boston Base Ball Association Stock Certificate issued to, and signed on the reverse by, Charles C. Cory, for exactly ONE share of stock in the team. Cory was one of the leading Ornithologists (brand of zoology which studies birds) of his time, and in typical Boston fashion, inherited his wealth from his father. The 1887 Boston Beaneaters of the National League included Hall of Famers Mike “king” Kelly and Old Hoss Radbourn, plus Honest John Morrill. The 8-9/16 x 5-3/8 inch certificate which is partially pre-printed with extensive handwriting, is dated June 14, 1887, and numbered “133”, recording the purchase of that single share of paid up capital. The certificate is signed by Boston owner “A. H. Soden,” who was also National League President for a season following the death of William Hulbert. Along the left side, the name of “JB Billings” as Treasurer helped sealed the deal. The reverse bears the signature of “Charles B. Cory,” but includes no other notations. This certificate is accompanied by the original 4-11/16 x 5-5/16 original receipt indicating issuance of one share from John C. Haynes to Charles B. Cory. All written information on both notes is boldly scripted in black fountain pen. The certificate is in excellent overall condition with some light edge toning, a few very small chips and a single vertical fold. The receipt contains a half dozen tiny staple like holes. Both item are bright and clean. The Boston Baseball Association, now the Atlanta Braves, is the longest continuous franchise in baseball, and the only club to have fielded a team every season since the inception of professional baseball. Own a piece of history as did Charles B. Cory.