An auction of historical financial documents assembled by Brian Mills of the International Bond and Share Society concluded with several notable sales. A 1718 UK government bond signed by Sir Isaac Newton met its €36,000 reserve. A signed Franklin Roosevelt presidential paycheck sold for €4,000. An 1822 Rothschild eurobond exceeded its €500 reserve, fetching €2,200. Despite modest prices for Poyais-related items, remaining lots offer diverse historical insights.
A 1783 Massachusetts bond requiring payment in gold and silver is listed as a snip at €300, compared to a prior sale at €7,000. A rare Royal African Company stock-transfer receipt, documenting Robert Keate's transfer of £4,000 nominal stock for £495, is the only surviving example aside from one in the Smithsonian. A 1689 William III Treasury warrant, signed by the Dutch prince, failed to attract bids above its €2,000 reserve. The highlight remains a 1558 Spanish royal government bond issued by Philip II, priced at an €8,000 reserve, featuring a perpetual 6.25% interest rate and listing Philip II as King of England and Spain.
Financial history enthusiasts may also explore *The Story of Money* for further context on these artifacts.
Source: Financial Times Markets · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing