Honor certificates, also known as certificates of honor or certificates of merit, are inscribed documents given to individuals to commemorate consistent achievement or outstanding performance. Honor certificates are issued in schools from kindergarten through post-secondary education. They are also provided by some organizations to recognize exceptional achievements. Occasionally, honor certificates are issued to public figures or well-known local figures who have significantly impacted their communities.

The tradition of awarding honor certificates, both scholastically and civically, dates to the first half of the 19th century. Since then, academic institutions have issued honor certificates to their students for myriad achievements. In recent times, however, most of these certificates are awarded to “honor students” who traditionally have excelled academically and completed more rigorous coursework than many of their peers. In addition, many post-secondary institutions have created honors programs, which outstanding students may be invited to join. These honors students receive certificates of honor upon graduation or completion of the honors coursework.

Political entities, such as the office of the President of the United States, may also award honor certificates. In addition, many state executives have issued honor certificates to individuals who have devoted themselves to exceptional civic service. Occasionally, the civic service is related to the prestige that individuals have brought to their home country or region. For example, an outstanding athlete who has performed on the world stage may be honored by a nation or municipality for the glory or recognition brought by the athlete.

Many other types of organizations offer honor or merit certificates for excellence in a specific area. Privately-owned organizations issue certificates for specific achievements or “employee of the month” honors. Fraternal organizations such as the Boy Scouts of America have awarded honor certificates for certain accomplishments or distinguished merit.

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An honor certificate is likely to be inscribed with one of the following: “Certificate of Honor,” “Honor Certificate,” “Certificate of Merit,” or “Merit Certificate.” In addition, these certificates commonly include a brief description of the award and the date the certificate was issued. The issuing body typically includes its name and insignia on the certificate.

Another element found on many honor certificates is the signature of the leader of the issuing organization. These signatures range from heads of state to public school administrators. Since the 1960s, it has been common for heads of state to use autopens or stamps to expedite the signing of certificates.

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The marks, autographs, patterns, and symbols that appear on honor certificates vary significantly based on the issuing body and the era. However, these certificates will likely contain the awarding institution’s logo or motto. Additionally, the institution’s leader or leaders will typically sign the certificate. The appearance of these autographs is standard.

Identify your Honor Certificate Symbols.

Books and Periodicals

Fifty Years of Civic Recognition, Spring 1999 by National Civic Review.

Web Resources

What Is a Certificate of Merit? www.reference.com.

Related Dictionary Pages: Memorial Certificate, Membership Certificate, Reward of Merit.