A more thorough explanation:

Definition: Certificate land refers to land in the western part of Pennsylvania that was set apart after the American Revolution to be bought with certificates that the soldiers received in lieu of pay. It is a type of public land that was granted to soldiers as a reward for their service.

Example: After the American Revolution, soldiers were given certificates instead of pay. These certificates could be used to buy certificate land in Pennsylvania. This land was set aside specifically for this purpose and was a way to reward soldiers for their service.

This example illustrates how certificate land was a type of public land that was granted to soldiers as a reward for their service. It was a way for the government to compensate soldiers for their efforts and to encourage settlement in the area.