Original Framed New York Stock Exchange Member Certificate William S O’Hagen Wall Street Memorabilia.
 
A very appealing original New York Stock Exchange member certificate, framed and measuring about 15" x 22", issued to William S. O’Hagen. At the center is the familiar etched architectural view of the Exchange building, with the formal membership text beneath. It is exactly the type of piece that instantly gives a room that old Wall Street, private-office, or club-library atmosphere.
This example becomes more interesting when you look at the names. The printed chairman’s signature is Bernard J. Lasker, who was elected chairman of the board of governors of the NYSE in 1969 and 1970 and is a recognized figure in Exchange history. The reverse retains a New York Frame & Picture Co., 141 Fulton St. label, a useful period clue because that address predates the company’s later move to John Street. Taken together, those details make this a strong late-1960s / early-1970s Wall Street display piece rather than a later decorative reproduction.
This is the sort of item that appeals to several buyers at once:
Wall Street and NYSE collectors,
New York history collectors,
office and study decorators,
and anyone who likes framed institutional pieces with a strong visual presence.
Condition:
Condition is vintage and shows water staining, lower-margin discoloration, age toning, spotting, and general wear to the certificate. The frame has finish wear and age. The back shows moisture-related wear to the backing paper. Even so, the central etching remains attractive, the text is still readable, and the overall presentation is very good for display.
Comparable public market references for framed NYSE membership certificates tend to be stronger retail examples in the $250 to $400 range, but because this example has noticeable moisture-related condition issues, it should be positioned below those cleaner offerings while still respecting its authentic period appeal.
With nearly 5 decades in this industry, we know that items like this sell because they combine history, design, and atmosphere in a way modern reproductions cannot. If you have any questions about the item you are viewing, please email us and we will be happy to provide answers.