Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Stock Certificate

Commissioned by Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus (American, 1919 - 2017)

Date1968-1969

MediumInk on paper

ClassificationsPosters

Credit LineGift of David Disend, 2016

Object numberSN11565.24

Ringling Bros, and Barnum & Bailey unissued specimen stock certificate is one of the most beautiful and sought after post-1960 certificates printed by the American Banknote Company. With its ornate border of animals, clowns and wagons, it is one of the most colorful of all stock certificates. This specimen is one of three certificates issued. When the Mattel Corporation purchased the show in 1971, Ringling shareholders were asked to trade their shares for Mattel's certificates, many refused because they could not part with the Ringling certificates. American Banknote Company Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Stock Certificate, 1969 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey was a publicly held corporation from 1969 until it was bought by Mattel Corporation in 1971. The stock certificates for the initial offering were first to be printed in full color. When the opportunity arose in 1982, the Felds bought back the circus. It has been privately owned ever since. Feld Entertainment has expanded to produce a portfolio of best in class, live family entertainments. Kenneth's daughters Nicole, Alana, and Juliette represent the third generation of the Feld family producing The Greatest Show On Earth.

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