Extremely Rare Ormsby’s Whaling Vignette Usage
An exceptional share certificate and subject matter. This was issued a few years before significant petroleum was discovered in Pennsylvania. Whale oil and its processing were important industries in the New York harbor areas for decades prior to that discovery. Ormsby printed many well-known obsolete bank notes. However, his relatively few stock certificates are among the finest engraved in this period. Fully issued and accomplished for one share dated July 14, 1855. Hand numbered 145 at upper left.
Top center is a furious whaling scene engraved for the Ormsby imprint and observed only on two share certificates and Plate 10 in his folio. Long sperm whale with especially high spout knocks over at least one whale boat in the rear as another boat attempts to harpoon the prize. Whaling ships in the background. Obligations across the center. Ornate end flourishes with sailor standing at top of mast left. Embossed company seal with whale vignette at lower left. As a graphic American share certificate, one of the beautiful.
From The LII Collection.