A certificate of authenticity (COA) should include: the artist's name, the artwork's title, year, dimensions and medium, a photo of the work, a statement that it is an original (or edition number, e.g. 3/25, with the print process and paper), the artist's signature and date, and a copyright notice. Many artists add a unique ID number, contact details and exhibition history.
Free COA template
CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY
[PHOTO OF THE ARTWORK]
Title: [TITLE]
Artist: [ARTIST NAME]
Year: [YEAR]
Medium: [MEDIUM] Dimensions: [W × H (× D)] in
Edition: [Original, one of a kind] or [3/25 — process, paper]
Certificate ID: [UNIQUE NUMBER]
I certify that this is an authentic artwork created by me.
All copyright and reproduction rights are retained by the artist.
Signature: ______________________ Date: __________
[ARTIST WEBSITE / EMAIL]
Tips
- Use a unique ID that matches your inventory record so the certificate can always be traced to the piece.
- For editions, state the total edition size and any artist's proofs.
- Keep a copy. A COA is part of the work's provenance.
ArtistOS generates a certificate of authenticity and a QR code for any artwork in your inventory, and on Studio keeps a full provenance timeline for each piece.
Sources
- Format — Certificates of authenticity for artwork
- Artwork Archive Help — Generating a certificate of authenticity
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a certificate of authenticity for my art?
It isn't legally required, but collectors increasingly expect one for originals and limited editions, and it helps document provenance.
Should a certificate of authenticity be signed?
Yes. The artist should sign and date it, ideally in ink, and keep a matching record in their inventory.
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