You’re absolutely correct. This particular computer file is not an original document.
The more-original document is on paper.
A computer file is produced by scanning the paper document. In this case, it was scanned, then optimized using computer software and converted to a PDF file, which was then posted to the web.
Actually, in this case, the ORIGINAL document almost certainly no longer exists.
The original document would’ve been done on paper, and entered into a physical book. Over the years, the original document was scanned (most likely onto microfiche). I don’t know for sure, but I strongly suspect that the microfiche records were subsequently digitized, and all of the “original” information is now stored in digital form, in an image database.
From there, an image would be printed onto safety paper, stamped and sealed to create a certified copy of a birth certificate.
Reportedly, what we have is a scanned, optimized, converted-to-PDF file of one of those green-safety-paper, certified documents.
The original document would’ve been done on paper, and entered into a physical book.
Before they released the copies to Obama's lawyer, Chiyome Fukino claimed to have twice examined the original, which is indeed kept bound in a book.
If you've ever visited a physical deeds registry, you know what I mean. You begin the paper chase at the grantor / grantee index. That will give you the book number and page number of a starting document. Then you go find the physical book and page, and often the document you find will refer to other, earlier documents by book and page. So, you follow the chain and construct the property's ownership history, etc.
I don’t know for sure, but I strongly suspect that the microfiche records were subsequently digitized, and all of the “original” information is now stored in digital form, in an image database.
Probably not. Or else they wouldn't be so reluctant to give out long forms. What they did do at some point was to create a database of key facts taken off each document. That's what they used to generate Obama's 2007 short form. If they had saved scanned images in that database as well, then it would be just as easy to create long form certificates as it is short form, namely a few mouse clicks, take it off the printer, stamp it, impress it with the seal, and mail it. No need to search out dusty old books and press them to the copier glass.
“Actually, in this case, the ORIGINAL document almost certainly no longer exists.”
Only complete morons or deviant operatives would toss original birth certificates after they are scanned. Systems crash, files get corrupted, etc. Ever heard of long-term storage? It’s what competent agencies do when they scan important documents.
There is no logical reason to believe the ORIGINAL birth certificate has been officially destroyed.