Old stock certificates can be works of art, often ordained with colorful illustrations and engravings, making them unusual and interesting objects of art in any business or home. Like many antiquities, many old stock certificates also tell a unique story that cannot be captured in the electronic shares issued today.  As such, they have become sought after by hobbyists, Wall Street collectors, and people looking for unique gifts. Old stock certificates have become quite valuable and have launched a new hobby called scripophily.  Scripophily is the study and collection of old stocks and bonds.