How to Estimate the Value of a Bearer Bond

Most bonds are issued to a particular individual in that person’s name; bearer bonds belong to whoever holds them. In this respect, they’re similar to cash. If you inherit bearer bonds from someone or find some tucked away in the attic, you might not know the value of the bond -- if the bond has any value at all. Studying the bond and learning more about the issuer of the bond will help you determine the value of your bearer bond.

Step 1

Examine the bond carefully. Some bonds have the value printed on them. If the bond has reached its full maturity, this is the value of your bond. The bonds should also have a maturity date marked on them. Many countries and businesses issue bearer bonds, so the values and dates may not be written in English. Notice if the bond has any coupons attached. Bearer bonds are sometimes called coupon bonds because they include coupons redeemable for interest payments at regular intervals. These coupons should have redemption dates. A bond with unexpired, unredeemed coupons attached has not yet reached its full maturity.

Step 2

Contact the company that issued the bond if it is still in business. Provide it with the serial number on the bond, and the company should be able to tell you the redemption value of your bond.

Step 3

Present your bond to a specialist in scripophily. Scripophily is the collecting of antique stocks and bonds. If you have a bearer bond issued decades ago, or by a company that no longer exists, it may have no value as a monetary instrument but it could still have value as a collectible. The value of collectible bonds is based on the rarity of the bond, the history surrounding it and the beauty of the engraving and artwork on the bond.