The West Virginia Certificate of Authenticity is an official document that verifies the accuracy and validity of microfilm or other photographic reproductions of public records in the state. This certificate serves as a proof of reliability and ensures that the reproduced records are an accurate representation of the original documents. In order to obtain a Certificate of Authenticity, the microfilm or photographic reproduction must adhere to specific standards set by the West Virginia Division of Culture and History's Archives and History Section. These standards include proper handling and preservation techniques for the documents, as well as the use of high-quality equipment and materials during the reproduction process. The Certificate of Authenticity contains crucial information including the name of the issuing authority, the unique identification number assigned to the reproduction, and the date of issuance. Additionally, it confirms that the reproduction was made in compliance with the established standards and under the supervision of qualified professionals. Different types of West Virginia Certificates of Authenticity may be awarded depending on the type of public records being reproduced. Some examples of these certificates include: 1. West Virginia Certificate of Authenticity for Microfilm Reproduction of Public Records: This certificate is granted for microfilm reproductions of vital statistics records, court records, land records, and other types of public records that are stored on microfilm. 2. West Virginia Certificate of Authenticity for Photographic Reproduction of Public Records: This certificate is issued for photographic reproductions of historical documents, maps, photographs, and other public records that are not suitable for microfilming. 3. West Virginia Certificate of Authenticity for Digital Reproduction of Public Records: With the advancements in technology, this certificate may be granted for digital reproductions of public records, such as scanned images or digitized versions of documents. It ensures that the digital reproduction accurately reflects the original record. Regardless of the type, the West Virginia Certificate of Authenticity plays a crucial role in preserving the integrity and reliability of reproduced public records. It serves as a testament to the careful handling and accurate reproduction of these important historical and legal documents.