Turn a long ago page from very early in the history of professional baseball, with this 1873 Boston Red Stockings stock certificate. Issued during the first year of Charles H. Porter's tenure as team president, this Boston Base Ball Association certificate is made to Porter in the amount of 4 shares, at a value of $100 per share. Porter's signature at lower right remains a distinct ("8") strength example, one hundred and fifty years after the signing. Likely incurred near the original period of issue, are two vertical compacting folds, an irregular left edge, and two pinholes from removal of a staple. Despite these conditions, this antique financial document remains crisp, clean and broadly appealing. 

1873 Was a banner year for the franchise now known as the Atlanta Braves. A member of the National Association, the Boston Red Stockings were the league's champions in 1873, finishing the season with a stellar record of 43-16, four games ahead of the Philadelphia White Stockings, thanks in large part to Hall of Famers Harry Wright, George Wright, Al Spalding, Deacon White, and Jim O'Rourke. From the third season of operation for the oldest continuously playing team in American professional sports history, this ancient relic is truly an historic treasure.