When it comes to vital records, such as birth and marriage certificates, many people discover that there are two types: certified copies and heirloom (or commemorative) certificates. While they may look similar, their purposes and legal standing differ significantly. If you’re curious about heirloom certificates—what they are, whether they’re legal documents, and why you might want one—this guide will clear things up.
What Are Heirloom and Commemorative Certificates?
Heirloom certificates, also known as commemorative certificates, are specially designed, decorative versions of standard vital records. They often feature elegant fonts, artistic borders, gold foil accents, or historical imagery. These certificates are created primarily for display and keepsake purposes—think of them as beautiful mementos that celebrate significant life events, such as births and marriages.
The terms “heirloom” and “commemorative” are often used interchangeably. Both refer to these decorative, non-legal versions of vital records issued by state or local vital records offices.
Are Heirloom Certificates Legal Documents?
Heirloom certificates are beautiful, decorative versions of vital records, such as birth and marriage certificates. They’re designed to be keepsakes that you can proudly display or share with family and friends. These certificates often feature elegant artwork, colorful borders, and special finishes, such as gold foil, making them a lovely way to celebrate important life moments.
However, it’s important to understand that heirloom certificates are not legal documents. While they include all the same essential information as official certificates—such as names, dates, and places—they don’t carry the legal weight needed for official purposes.
Heirloom certificates are perfect for honoring your personal history and decorating your home, but certified copies remain essential for any legal or official use. Having both allows you to preserve your memories in style while keeping your important documents readily available whenever you need them.
What Are Certified Copies?
A certified copy is the official, legal version of a birth, marriage, death, or divorce certificate. It contains security features such as a raised seal, watermark, or embossed signature, and is typically printed on specialized paper. This certificate is what government agencies, employers, schools, and other entities require as proof of identity or legal status. They serve as proof of identity, citizenship, or marital status in official or legal matters such as:
- Applying for a passport or driver’s license
- Enrolling in school
- Proving eligibility for government benefits
- Changing your name legally
- Filing taxes
Why Have Both Certified and Heirloom Certificates?
Having both can be highly beneficial:
- Certified copies fulfill all legal requirements and official uses. They are essential documents you may need throughout your life.
- Heirloom or commemorative certificates provide a beautiful, frame-worthy keepsake to celebrate and display your personal history or family heritage.
Ordering both types means you can keep the legal document safe and intact while proudly displaying the decorative certificate at home or sharing it with loved ones.
Which States Offer Heirloom or Commemorative Certificates?
A growing number of states now offer decorative, heirloom, or commemorative birth and/or marriage certificates, intended for display and celebration, not for legal use. Each features unique artwork and design that reflects the state’s identity.
New Hampshire is launching its first heirloom marriage certificate design contest, with the winning artwork set to become the official state version in 2026.
Alabama can issue a Keepsake Birth Certificate, suitable for framing, for anyone born in Alabama who has a record on file in the state’s office.
Alaska issues artistic heirloom marriage certificates with designs like “Ravens in Love” and “McKinley Moonlight,” ideal for couples or families who want a framed keepsake.
California offers commemorative birth and marriage certificates featuring vibrant state imagery and elegant layouts.
Colorado offers decorative birth certificates featuring scenic state views, including mountain ranges and official icons.
Florida supplies commemorative marriage certificates, signed by the governor and registrar, which are explicitly created for framing and memory-keeping.
Illinois and Michigan each offer both commemorative birth and marriage certificates, often including stylish art and decorative borders.
Maryland issues commemorative marriage certificates that highlight iconic state landmarks.
Texas offers decorative birth certificates featuring rich, colorful state-themed artwork, making them perfect for a treasured display.
Washington also offers commemorative marriage certificates, often printed on premium paper with artistic designs and gold foil accents, designed for framing and remembrance.
From state seals to local scenery, these certificates transform vital records into meaningful keepsakes, offering families a beautiful way to honor life’s milestones.
In addition to state-issued options, some county jurisdictions also offer decorative or commemorative marriage certificates for marriages filed at the county level. These are often available directly through the county clerk’s office and can be a charming local keepsake for couples.
What’s Included in Heirloom Certificates?
While heirloom certificates contain the same vital information as the certified copies—names, dates, places, and official signatures—they are printed on higher-quality paper with decorative elements like:
- Colored borders
- Gold or silver foil stamping
- State seals or emblems
- Artistic backgrounds or images related to the state or event
How to Order Heirloom and Certified Certificates
Start by visiting your state’s vital records website. Most states allow you to request certified, heirloom, or commemorative certificates online through their official portals or trusted services, such as Vital Records Online.
Choose the type of certificate you need. You can typically select a certified copy, an heirloom or commemorative version, or order both at the same time. Certified copies are legal documents, while heirloom versions are decorative keepsakes.
Fill out the application form and verify your identity. States require basic information about the record, along with a valid ID, to ensure that only eligible individuals can access it.
Pay the required fees. Certified copies usually have a set price. Heirloom or commemorative certificates may cost slightly more due to their unique design and printing.
Receive your documents by mail or via online delivery. Delivery options vary by state, but many offer standard mail, expedited shipping, or digital delivery if available.
Heirloom Keepsakes to Last a Lifetime
Heirloom and commemorative certificates offer an excellent way to celebrate life’s important milestones in style, while certified copies remain the essential legal documents needed for official purposes. If you want to preserve your family history beautifully without compromising on legal needs, ordering both types is the best approach.
Whether you’re celebrating a birth or marriage, check your state’s vital records website to explore the available options for ordering heirloom and certified certificates—and get ready to keep your memories both safe and stunning!