The Russo-Roumanian Oil Company Limited was one of the British oil companies established in the large Romanian oil basin (Ploiești, Moreni, Câmpina), intensively exploited from the 1880s onward. Although bearing a name referring to Russia, the company operated mainly in Romania and had its head office in London (Trafalgar Buildings, Trafalgar Square). This Wallachian oilfield was, on the eve of the First World War, one of the most productive in Europe.

This certificate is a PREFERENCE SHARE WARRANT TO BEARER for FIVE SHARES of £1 each, i.e. £5 sterling, with a 10% preferential dividend. Number No. 15904, internal numbering of the five shares: No. 28467 to No. 28471. Capital £75,000 (= Frs 1,875,000). Bilingual English / French text. Beautiful green and black design with a Victorian border, the company's Common Seal and a large royal crown. Signatures of the Secretary and two Directors. Central red "PREFERENCE SHARE WARRANT" stamp.

Apparent condition: very good, sturdy paper, well-legible inks, sharp signatures, light fold marks and small edge tears.

An interesting piece: oil scripophily + dual British/Romanian theme, a dynamic collectors' market.