The authentic of a relics is an official document issued by a competent Church authority (usually a bishop, abbot, or postulator of a cause for sainthood) that certifies:

• The genuineness of the relic (e.g. first-class relic of a saint).

• The origin and class of the relic (e.g. part of the saint’s body, clothing, etc.).

• Sometimes, the name of the person or institution to whom it was entrusted.

• The seal of the authority (often a red wax seal) and their signature.

• This document is crucial for veneration, especially if the relic is displayed for public devotion or used in a church setting. Without the authentic, the relic is not officially recognized and may not be venerated publicly.