Expert: Steven Taylor - 5/2/2011

Question
Hi there,
I have uncovered a stock certificate from 1945 with Kirkland-Townsite Gold Mines Limited for 100 shares.  I have a number of other stock certificates as well, but honestly don't know where to start?  Do any of the old stocks ever amount to anything or I am just wasting my time?  Would appreciate your guidance?!
Katherine

Answer
Katherine, from the information I have available, the Kirkland shares have no current value. Kirkland did a 1 for 3 and eventually became KT Resources (1981). KT was cease-traded in 1984, and that order remains in effect.

For the other shares, even if they do have current value, you will have to legally prove the shares were correctly transferred to you. Finding old stock certificates at a garage sale, for instance (a common occurrence) doesn't constitute legal transfer. A relative leaving you the shares in a will, however, does. Assuming you have the will as you will need to provide a copy to the transfer agent to prove your legal ownership.

If you have a lot of share certificates, and you can prove your ownership, I suggest you contact a broker who should be able to perform detailed searches for you.