What information is included in the header of an ex parte reexamination certificate?

This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.

The header of an ex parte reexamination certificate includes several key pieces of information:

• The patent number of the original patent
• The reexamination request number
• The effective date of the certificate
• The patent owner’s name
• The text “Ex Parte Reexamination Certificate”
• The number of the certificate (e.g., “1st”)

As stated in MPEP 2290: “The certificate is titled “Ex Parte Reexamination Certificate.” The title is followed by the patent number of the original patent and the effective date of the certificate.”