The "The Commercial & Estates Company of Egypt" was founded on April 14, 1904, authorized by a Khedivial decree. The company emerged from the merger or transformation of the previous "S. Karam & Frères," a firm with a long history in the real estate and commercial sectors in Egypt. Based in Alexandria, one of the country's main economic and commercial centers, the company was primarily involved in property management, real estate transactions, and land development. With an initial share capital of 360,000 Egyptian Pounds, the company aimed to capitalize on the urban expansion and growing demand for real estate in a rapidly modernizing Egypt.
The certificate shown in the image represents a "Part de Fondation au Porteur" issued on May 1, 1904. This type of certificate was intended to give its holders a share of the company's profits without granting them control rights over the company's management.
Historical Context:
The issuance of this certificate took place during a period of economic prosperity and urban development in Egypt. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Egypt experienced a period of economic growth, thanks in part to reforms introduced by the Khedivial government and the strong European economic presence. Alexandria, with its port and strategic location, was at the center of this economic boom, and companies like "The Commercial & Estates Company of Egypt" were crucial for the city's real estate development.
Historical Company Data:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Incorporation | 1904 |
| Registered Office | Alexandria, Egypt |
| Share Capital at Incorporation | 360,000 Egyptian Pounds |
| Share Capital at Dissolution | Data not available |
| Year of Stock Exchange Admission | Data not available |
| Year of Delisting | Data not available |
| Year of Company Dissolution | Data not available |
| Turnover (reference year 1904) | Data not available |
Document Characteristics:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Type of Certificate | Foundation Part to Bearer |
| Certificate Number | 361 |
| Nominal Value | Not specified |
| Date of Issue | May 1, 1904 |
| Signed by | Not clearly identifiable from the document |
| Artistic Elements | The certificate is characterized by a richly detailed decorative frame, with graphic representations including buildings and rural scenes typical of early 20th-century Egypt. |
| Typography | Typ. Lith. L. Poussielgue, Alexandria |
| Provenance | Data not available |
Artistic and Typographic Description:
The certificate is an extraordinary example of early 20th-century typographic art, with a decorated frame that echoes architectural and landscape elements of the period in Egypt. The graphic representations include images of commercial buildings and rural life scenes, suggesting the duality of the company's activities in both urban and agricultural sectors. The printing, carried out by the "Typ. Lith. L. Poussielgue" of Alexandria, is of the highest quality, with fine details and a masterful use of symmetry and colors.
Provenance:
There is no specific information available about the provenance of this certificate. However, it is plausible that it was held by both local and international investors interested in Egypt's real estate market, a sector that was expanding during the Belle Époque period.
Valuation and Rarity:
This certificate can be considered rare, especially if in good condition. Its association with a leading real estate company in Alexandria and its artistic design make it a sought-after piece among scripophily collectors. The rarity is further enhanced by the fact that it represents a "Part de Fondation," a type of certificate that conferred special rights to its holders.
Considerations for Collectors:
Collecting old financial documents, known as scripophily, not only offers the opportunity to own a piece of history but also to explore the economic and social evolution of past periods. This certificate from "The Commercial & Estates Company of Egypt" is a significant example of how the real estate sector was central to Alexandria's economic development in the early 20th century. Collectors might consider framing such documents using quality materials to preserve their integrity and enhance their historical and artistic appeal.
Use as a Gift:
In addition to its historical and collectible value, this document can be considered a unique and valuable gift, ideal for those passionate about history, finance, or art. Whether for sophisticated décor, a personal collection, or as a signature gift, a historical certificate like this always adds a touch of class and depth.
Certificate of Authenticity:
An official certificate of authenticity can be requested for this document, which includes a historical register. To obtain this service, contact via email info@scripo.it. Additional documentation can increase the perceived value of the certificate.
All historical documents for sale are intended for collection purposes. The documents have no economic or financial value (no economic or financial value), images that are not of the historical document are representative of the company's object and the historical period of reference are not provided but can be freely downloaded from the website and printed.
