<p>Fluorescent epoxy adhesive was prepared from covalent incorporation of coumarin and microcrystalline cellulose into epoxy matrix and used as anticounterfeiting adhesive in antiquities. Fluorescent coumarin was covalently incorporated in 2.5 wt% to give fluorescence properties to the adhesive. The covalent incorporation of fluorescent dye into the epoxy resin eliminates the disadvantages of the physical doping approach, such as leaching from the system. Epoxidized cellulose microcrystal (CMC-EP) was also covalently incorporated to improve mechanical strength and thermal properties of the epoxy adhesive and also gives a sustainable life-cycle to the adhesive. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that char residue at 700 ℃ was increased from 3 to 14.5% with increasing CMC-EP content in adhesive formulation from 0 through 4%. The presence of CMC-EP has also improved the decomposition behavior of the adhesives, where the decomposition temperature increased from 320 to 384 ℃. Finally, the fluorescent adhesive was used as anticounterfeiting adhesive in different types of antique wares samples. Such a sustainable fluorescent adhesive can also be used in different anticounterfeiting and authentication applications.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>