Thurston Howard

Howard Thurston Signed Neptune Motion Picture Effects, Inc. Certificate


A stock certificate from Neptune Motion Picture Effects, Inc. signed by Howard Thurston (1869-1936), the renowned vaudeville magician, as "Howard Thurston" at lower right. Signed in Thurston's capacity as company president on June 13, 1916, approximately one week after the concern was first incorporated in Albany, New York by Thurston; Rialto F.C. Leithold, company secretary, document co-signee, and certificate holder; and B.C. Elliott. Certificate No. 15 represented 50 capital stock shares (each valued at $10) in the fledgling company, or approximately 3% of the company's entire capital ($15,000) at the time of its incorporation. Blind-stamped seal at lower left. Cancelled revenue stamp at upper left. Docketed and signed verso. With expected paper folds and light overall toning, else near fine. 10.75" x 8.125".


Howard Thurston, alternately known by his soubriquets "The Great Magician" and the "King of Cards", enthralled audiences with his illusions and feats of leger-de-main for over three decades. Thurston excelled in levitation illusions, disappearing acts, and card tricks. He incorporated magic, comedy, and beautiful women into crowd-pleasing traveling shows. Like his contemporary Harry Houdini, Thurston became interested in the motion picture industry as a means to expand his access to audiences. Most of these cinematic efforts failed, including Thurston's.


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.


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