Banca Popolare Cooperativa di Cesena: Share Certificate
Document Details
- Title: Share Certificate No. 3255.
- Issuer: Banca Popolare Cooperativa di Cesena.
- Nominal Value: 100 Lire.
- Date of Issue: October 31, 1921.
- Signatories:
- President: Parpaglia.
- Director: Imandri.
- Treasurer: Abbriani.
- Stamps and Marks: Official stamps and period revenue stamps, including 1 Lira and 25-cent stamps.
Certificate Features
-
Elegant Design:
- Elaborate frame with classic decorative motifs and institutional symbols, including a crowned crest.
- Embossed details and artistic quality typical of early 20th-century financial instruments.
-
Dividend Coupons:
- Attached coupons for dividend collection for the years 1945 to 1953.
- Each coupon is numbered and designated for payment at the bank's counter.
-
Authenticity:
- Official bank stamps certify authenticity.
- Handwritten signatures provide further validation.
History of Banca Popolare Cooperativa di Cesena
The Banca Popolare Cooperativa di Cesena was founded in 1874 under the approval of a Royal Decree dated April 16 of the same year. The institution was among the first Italian cooperative banks, adhering to mutualistic principles to economically support local communities.
-
Mission and Development:
- Established to assist local farmers, artisans, and small business owners.
- Promoted savings and loans under favorable conditions, contributing to the economic development of Cesena and the Romagna region.
-
Expansion and Local Significance:
- Became a financial cornerstone for communities in the Forlì-Cesena province.
- The cooperative model enabled an equitable distribution of dividends among members, strengthening a sense of community ownership.
-
Continuity and Evolution:
- Maintained autonomy until the mid-20th century, before becoming part of broader financial consolidation processes.
Economic and Historical Significance
This certificate is a historical artifact representing the cooperative banking movement in Italy. Through financial instruments like these shares, Banca Popolare di Cesena not only supported the local economy but also embodied the values of cooperation and social solidarity. These principles deeply influenced the Italian banking system, leaving a lasting legacy.