A mobile, portable apparatus for authenticating, verification and certification of a security article, the apparatus comprising an enclosure securely housing components of the apparatus; an authentication device operable to authenticate the security article; a power source, preferably of solar type, different type of batteries, uninterruptable power supply, different type of charging facilities and/or any source of energy; an imaging device for simultaneously imaging in opposing and/or multiple directions; a programmable and configurable control panel; an information processing unit; and a printing device for printing and/or special marking on the security article, wherein the imaging device is portably coupled to the authentication device; and wherein the control panel is arranged as an interface command and control center connected to the information processing unit and the other components of the apparatus. The method involves determining whether a registered operator of the portable authentication apparatus is verified; and permitting access to an authentication device of the portable authentication apparatus if the registered operator is verified. The system includes the portable authentication apparatus; and a remote server operable to communicate with the portable authentication apparatus.