William Fargo Signed Stock Certificate for American Express Company.

FARGO, William.

$1,100.00

Item Number: 147775

New York: American Express Company, 1873.

Rare American Express Company stock certificate signed by American businessman William Fargo. Imperial octavo, one page with the “Safety & Dispatch” vignette of the dog (mascot of American Express) at the center. The certificate is dated March 29, 1873 and issues fifty shares of Capital Stock to Rev. William Bliss Ashley. Partially printed document signed by “Wm G. Fargo” as President, “Alex Holland” as Treasurer, and “J. N. Knapp” as Secretary. In very good condition with cancellation stamp and cancel cuts on the front, light toning. Transfer information present on verso. The piece measures 11.25 inches by 8 inches.

William Fargo was an American businessman and a key figure in the development of the financial and transportation sectors in the 19th century. In 1850, he co-founded the American Express Company after the consolidation of three express services of the period: Wells & Company; Livingston, Fargo & Company; and Butterfield, Wasson & Company. Initially specializing in secure freight and financial services, and later evolving into a global financial institution. In 1852, he co-founded Wells Fargo & Company to serve the growing banking and express needs of the western United States during the Gold Rush. Wells Fargo became instrumental in stagecoach transportation, banking, and express delivery, facilitating economic expansion.