The copies aforesaid of all such deeds, wills, conveyances and other instruments proper to be recorded or registered, as are mentioned in N.C. Gen. Stat. § 98-12, may be recorded or registered on application to the clerk of the superior court and due proof that the original thereof was genuine. (1865-6, c. 41, s. 11; Code, s. 66; Rev., s. 338; C.S., s. 377.)