IMM Stock Certificate – Signed by President Philip Albright Small Franklin (1921)
Own a historically significant piece of corporate and maritime history: an International Mercantile Marine (IMM) stock certificate issued to and signed by President Philip Albright Small Franklin in 1921. The IMM owned the White Star Lines which was the owner of the Titanic.
When the Titanic sank in 1912, Franklin was head of the White Star Line headquarters in New York. When he heard of the disaster he assured relatives of the passengers that "There is no danger that Titanic will sink. The boat is unsinkable, and nothing but inconvenience will be suffered by the passengers." Later that night he admitted to the seriousness, "I thought her unsinkable, and I based my opinion on the best expert advice. I do not understand it." The board of director's were happy with his handling of the disaster and he was later promoted to President of the IMM Company where he served from 1916 to the late 1930s.
Background: International Mercantile Marine was a trust formed by J.P. Morgan to coordinate and potentially monopolize the shipping trade. Its umbrella included White Star Line, the owner of the Titanic. IMM faced receivership in 1915 and eventually evolved into United States Lines.
Why This Certificate Stands Out
- Authentic IMM stock certificate signed by a pivotal figure in early 20th-century shipping
- Direct historical connection to White Star Line and the Titanic era
- Historically significant for finance, shipping, and maritime history collections
Historical & Contextual Overview
IMM’s formation by J.P. Morgan represented a strategic approach to consolidating global shipping interests. The company’s evolution, including the White Star Line asset and the Titanic saga, reflects a transformative period in international trade and corporate finance.
Specifications
- Issuer: International Mercantile Marine (IMM)
- Subject: Stock Certificate signed by Philip Albright Small Franklin (1921)
- Historical Note: Franklin served as head of White Star Line in NYC during Titanic events; IMM later became United States Lines
