Not a Furniture Piece (Ephemera/Historical Document)
Other (Historical Paper Document/Insurance Certificate) · Early 20th Century / WWI Era (1918-1919) · The Fidelity and Casualty Company of New York (The Theo E. Gaty and Robert J. Hillas signatures).
Type
Other (Historical Paper Document/Insurance Certificate)
Style Period
Early 20th Century / WWI Era (1918-1919)
Material
Paper (parchment/bond) with printed ink and handwritten ink signatures.
Age Estimate
Dated 1918-1919 based on printed and handwritten dates.
Dimensions
Approximately 8.5 x 11 inches or standard legal size.
Origin
New York City, USA (92 Liberty Street).
Designer/Maker
The Fidelity and Casualty Company of New York (The Theo E. Gaty and Robert J. Hillas signatures).
Value Estimate
$10 - $35 as a collectible piece of ephemera for historical enthusiasts.
Description
An authentic insurance renewal certificate from The Fidelity and Casualty Company of New York for Elbert J. Johnson. It features a decorative orange border, classic early 20th-century typography, and significant historical clauses regarding war risks during the WWI period.
Key Features
Handwritten dates of 1918/1919, specific mentions of 'War Risks of Civilians', and the $12.00 premium amount.
Color & Finish
Off-white/cream aged paper with orange border scrollwork and black typography.
Construction Method
Industrial printing process (lithography or offset) on paper substrate.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Graphic design featuring ornate typography and detailed border engraving typical of the era.
Wood Grain & Species
N/A - This is a paper document.
Surface Treatment
Printed surface with handwritten ink for names, dates, and amounts; visible fold lines.
Upholstery Details
N/A - This is a paper document.
Hardware & Fittings
N/A - This is a paper document.
Origin & Provenance
New York City, USA (92 Liberty Street).
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; visible creases from multiple folds, minor browning/toning consistent with age, and slight edge wear.
Interesting Facts
The document includes specific legal language regarding 'War Risks of Civilians' and service in the military or navy, reflecting the global conflict (WWI) occurring at the time.
Cultural Significance
Represents the history of the insurance industry and socioeconomic conditions in the United States during the World War I era.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with stocks or bonds, but distinguishable by its status as a 'Certificate Continuing in Force Policy'.
Care & Maintenance
Keep in an acid-free archival sleeve, away from direct sunlight and high humidity to prevent further yellowing or brittleness.
Value Estimate
$10 - $35 as a collectible piece of ephemera for historical enthusiasts.
Sustainability Notes
Represents historical paper production; preservation of existing ephemera is a form of cultural sustainability.