What exactly does a copyright holder own?

Question

What exactly does a copyright holder own?

Answer 1

The copyright holder has almost exclusive rights to copy a work, usually that he or she created.  This is different from owning a physical work itself.    If someone buys a photograph from you for example, they own that photograph and my re-sell it at any profit they can.   They can not however, make copies under most circumstances without the permission  (usage rights or license) of the creator/copyright holder.   Note, there are some exceptions such as fair use where things may be legally copied and used without the permission of the copyright holder.  

Also note, that while, the copyright holder has certain rights and to violate these rights is copyright infringement, to take any legal action, the copyright holder must have registered their work with the library of congress copyright office.  (Assuming United States).    

If the orphan works legislation is ever passed, this may all change drastically.

Answer 2

The copy rights. The rights to the copy.  

Answer 3

Generally, the right to sell, distribute or profit from a work.

Ownership!

See also the US Copyright web site for details.

http://www.copyright.gov/

Answer 4

An intellectual property as evidenced by his written records in words and symbols that only he has the right to copy or authorize to be copied.