Standard Oil Trust signed by John D. Rockefeller, Henry M. Flagler and Clement A. Griscom - 1880's dated Autograph Stock Certificate

John D. Rockefeller (1839-1937) was an influential industrialist and philanthropist. At the age of 30, he established the first oil trust, and within a decade, he had monopolized 85% of the oil industry, becoming the world's first billionaire. Known for his disdain for waste and inefficiency, Rockefeller focused on eliminating poorly managed sectors of the industry, often driving competitors out of business or acquiring them. This aggressive approach made him one of the most reviled figures in the nation, necessitating the presence of a bodyguard at all times. Throughout his life, he contributed approximately $750 million to science and education. In a pioneering public relations effort, he would distribute shiny new dimes to those he encountered. Alongside Henry M. Flagler, a prominent capitalist and promoter, Rockefeller acknowledged in court that Flagler was “the brains behind the Standard Oil Trust.” Flagler played a significant role in transforming Florida’s previously overlooked beaches and swamplands into one of the world's most opulent recreational destinations.

This unique 100-share stock certificate from the 1880's is issued to C. A. Griscom, featuring his prominent signature on both the front stub and the reverse side of the document. This stock is also transferred to John D. Rockefeller. Griscom was a notable financier, serving as the President of the International Navigation Company and holding nearly all shares of the Red Star Line, a Belgian corporation, as well as the International Navigation Company of Liverpool, England, and the Empire Transportation Company based in Seattle. In 1902, the International Navigation Company rebranded as the International Mercantile Marine Company, with an increased capital aimed at acquiring the fleets and businesses of the White Star Line and several other companies. It is worth noting that the White Star Line was the owner of the Titanic. Ironically, Griscom passed away in November 1912, just months after the Titanic disaster. All signatures on the document are lightly cut cancelled and are in superb condition. The overall quality and visual appeal are exceptional, with Griscom's signature being particularly large and bold. The certificate also features impressive portraits of both Rockefeller and Flagler. This is a truly remarkable example for numerous reasons, and it is in excellent condition, making it exceedingly rare with all these attributes.

Clement Acton Griscom (March 15, 1841 – November 10, 1912) was a prominent American shipping magnate and financier. By the year 1900, he was regarded as the pivotal figure in American transatlantic shipping. Born in 1841 into a distinguished Philadelphia family, Griscom was the son of Dr. John D. Griscom, a respected physician, and Margaret Acton Lloyd, who was a direct descendant of Thomas Lloyd. He received his education at local Quaker institutions and Central High School. At the age of 16, in 1857, he began his career as a clerk at Peter Wright and Sons, a Quaker shipping company in Philadelphia, and he became a partner in the firm in 1863.

In 1872, he assumed the role of vice-president at the International Navigation Company, which managed three vessels. Over time, the Red Star Line was integrated into this enterprise. By 1888, he advanced to the position of president of the International Navigation Company. By the year 1900, Griscom was recognized as "without question, the key figure in American transatlantic shipping." In 1901, media outlets characterized him as a millionaire. The following year, with financial backing from J. Pierpont Morgan, the companies were consolidated into the International Mercantile Marine shipping trust company, which operated 136 ships across five transatlantic routes. Griscom held the presidency of IMM from 1902 until 1904, when he stepped down due to health issues. He continued to serve as chairman, while J. Bruce Ismay succeeded him as president, promptly relocating the headquarters to New York and downsizing the workforce. Additionally, Griscom was a member of the board of directors for both the Pennsylvania Railroad and United States Steel. His country residence, Dolobran (1881), located in Haverford, Pennsylvania, is regarded as one of the most significant works of architect Frank Furness. Furness also designed the interiors for two of Griscom's Red Star Line steamships, the S.S. St. Louis (1894–95) and the S.S. St. Paul (1894–95). Griscom owned a private hunting estate named Horseshoe Plantation, situated north of Tallahassee, Florida. He passed away from a stroke at the age of 71. In 1914, his widow commemorated him with a fountain in the Watch Hill area of Westerly, Rhode Island, which featured a bronze statue of the Niantic chief Ninigret, crafted by sculptor Enid Yandell.

Griscom entered into matrimony with Frances Canby Biddle (1840-1923), who hailed from a distinguished Quaker family in Philadelphia, in the year 1862. Together, they had six offspring:

• John Acton Griscom (1863-1865)
• Helen Biddle Griscom (1866-1950), who wed Samuel Bettle in 1889
• Clement Acton Griscom Jr. (1868-1918), a shipping executive, married Genevieve Sprigg Ludlow in 1889. Their children included Ludlow, Joyce, and Acton
• Rodman Ellison Griscom (1870-1944), a stockbroker, married Anne Starr in 1897
• Lloyd Carpenter Griscom (1872-1959), a diplomat, married Elizabeth Duer Bronson in 1901
• Frances C. "Pansy" Griscom (1879-1974), a renowned golfer