These links lead to discussions about the various questions you may have about collectible stocks and bonds.

If you are baffled by the differences between stocks and bonds, click on The Differences for an explanation. Do not be surprised when you encounter certificates that do not fall cleanly into one category or another. The truth is, many certificates defy clear-cut separation. Nonetheless, I must TRY to lump certificates into three major categories with these common sub-divisions.

• Stocks
  • common or capital
  • preferred
• Bonds
  • mortgage/collateral
  • debentures
  • sinking fund
  • consolidated
  • land grant
  • government aid
  • equipment trusts
• Other
  • scrip
  • warrants
  • receipts
  • temporary certificates
  • certificates of deposit
  • fractional certificates
  • stock transfers