Stocks and Bonds

Pepsi-Cola 1919 Stock Certificate, Signed by Caleb Bradham

Pepsi-Cola Stock Certificate no. 85 issued for 10 shares. Dated "September 17, 1919" and signed by the company President Caleb D. Bradham, "C.D. Bradham", founder of the original North Carolina based Pepsi-Cola Company and predecessor of the giant global enterprise we know today. Certificate 10.5" x 8.25", showing the engraved eagle clutching the shield. Archivally restored and backed with Japanese paper, else very fine.

Pepsi Cola is one of the most recognizable products in the world today, almost as famous for its commercials as for its never-ending battle with rival soft drink Coca-Cola. From its humble origins more than 125 years ago in a North Carolina pharmacy, Pepsi has grown into a product available in multiple formulations.

The original formula for what would become Pepsi Cola was invented in 1893 by pharmacist Caleb Bradham of New Bern, N.C. Like many pharmacists at the time, he operated a soda fountain in his drugstore, where he served drinks that he created himself. His most popular beverage was something he called "Brad's drink," a mix of sugar, water, caramel, lemon oil, kola nuts, nutmeg, and other additives.

As the beverage caught on, Bradham decided to give it a snappier name, eventually settling on Pepsi-Cola. By the summer of 1903, he had trademarked the name and was selling his soda syrup to pharmacies and other vendors throughout North Carolina. By the end of 1910, franchisers were selling Pepsi in 24 states.

At first, Pepsi had been marketed as a digestive aid, appealing to consumers with the slogan, "Exhilarating, Invigorating, Aids Digestion." But as the brand flourished, the company switched tactics and decided instead to use the power of celebrity to sell Pepsi. In 1913, Pepsi hired Barney Oldfield, a famous race car driver of the era, as a spokesman. He became famous for his slogan "Drink Pepsi-Cola. It Will Satisfy You." The company would continue to use celebrities to appeal to buyers in the coming decades.

In 1961 Pepsi-Cola was shortened to Pepsi.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.