Western Maryland Railroad Gold Bond – Issued to John D. Rockefeller, 1917
Own a striking piece of American corporate history with this Western Maryland Railroad Company Gold Bond issued in 1917 to the legendary industrialist John D. Rockefeller. While the certificate itself is boldly issued to Rockefeller (not signed), it represents a compelling artifact from the era of railroad expansion and the rise of major American monopolies.
The early 20th century was a pivotal period in U.S. industry. Standard Oil, founded by John D. Rockefeller and Henry Flagler in 1863, grew into the world’s largest and most influential company before its 1911 Supreme Court ruling as a monopoly, which led to its breakup into 43 smaller companies. Many modern oil and energy firms trace their lineage back to Standard Oil’s legacy.
Western Maryland Railroad Gold Bond – 1917
- Subject: Western Maryland Railroad Company Bond
- Year: 1917
- Notable Holder: Issued to John D. Rockefeller (unendorsed)
- Historical Context: Era of railroad expansion and early 20th-century American industry
- Display Value: Ideal for framing, offices, libraries, and collections
Display & Collecting Value
This gold bond offers a distinctive look with its rich color and era-appropriate typography. It pairs well with other financial memorabilia, railroad collectibles, or industrial history displays.
Specifications
| Subject | Western Maryland Railroad Bond |
| Year | 1917 |
| Holder | John D. Rockefeller (issued to) |
| Framing | Available |