Original 1924 Beach-Krahn Amusement Co. stock certificate, issued in Berkeley, California during the silent-film era.

This certificate is especially interesting for its connection to early East Bay motion-picture history. It was issued for 3 shares at $50 each to Susie M. Driver on August 23, 1924, and bears manuscript signatures of company officers Herbert L. Beach and William F. Krahn.

Herbert Lafayette Beach was a prominent Oakland theater operator who later entered public office and served as Mayor of Oakland from 1945 to 1947. William F. Krahn was also an important early East Bay theater proprietor, associated with the development and operation of Berkeley-area movie houses including the Lorin and Strand theaters.

Beach-Krahn Amusement Co. was active in the formative years of neighborhood motion-picture exhibition in the Oakland-Berkeley area. The company operated a theater circuit during the 1910s and 1920s and was connected with several important early cinemas, including the Strand Theatre in Berkeley, predecessor to the later Elmwood Theatre.

Certificate details include:

• Beach-Krahn Amusement Co.
• Berkeley, California
• Certificate No. 119NS
• Issued for 3 shares
• $50 par value per share
• Dated August 23, 1924
• Issued to Susie M. Driver
• Manuscript signatures of Herbert L. Beach and William F. Krahn
• Reverse signed by Susie M. Driver
• Transfer dated March 2, 1925
• Original attached transfer stub
• Revenue stamps
• Embossed gold corporate seal
• Eagle and American shield vignette

The certificate has been cancelled with punch holes and a large blue “X,” as shown. It also shows expected handling and age wear consistent with a century-old issued financial document. Please review all photos carefully for condition.

A strong crossover piece for collectors of California history, Berkeley and Oakland history, silent-film memorabilia, early movie theaters, political autographs, and vintage stock certificates.