Presuming the information this thread is accurate, the value of obtaining an inexpensive “informational copy” of Ludwig’s death certificate could include verifying the claimed social security number (or the last 4 digits) and identifying his location at the time of his death (which could lead to persons who knew him, such as friends, relatives, business partners, or medical professionals).
An obituary of Ludwig could reveal additional information on his background and family, and could lead to additional information such as the location of real estate he owned and where a probate case may have been filed.
Interesting...
Non-reuse from gov’t website & non-uniqueness from computerworld article (industry)...
(see Q20)
http://www.ssa.gov/history/hfaq.html
http://blogs.computerworld.com/node/5969