Great Seal of the United States

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The obverse of the Great Seal

Armiger
Battle cry
Alternative name(s)
Earliest mention
Adopted	1782
Relinquished
Families
Crest

The Great Seal of the United States is a principal national symbol of the United States. It is used to authenticate certain documents issued by the federal government. The phrase "Great Seal" is used both for the physical seal itself (which is kept by the United States Department of State) and more generally for the design impressed upon it.

History

The Great Seal was first used publicly in 1782. The design process for the seal began on July 4, 1776, when the Continental Congress appointed the first of three committees to develop a seal. The final design was approved on June 20, 1782.

Design

The Great Seal has two sides, the obverse and the reverse. The obverse features a bald eagle, the national bird of the United States, holding a scroll in its beak inscribed with the motto "E Pluribus Unum" ("Out of many, one"). The eagle clutches an olive branch in its right talon and a bundle of thirteen arrows in its left, symbolizing the power of peace and war. Above the eagle's head is a "glory" with thirteen stars, representing a new constellation.

The reverse side of the seal, which is not used as frequently, features an unfinished pyramid with thirteen steps, representing the original thirteen states. Above the pyramid is the Eye of Providence, and below it is the motto "Novus ordo seclorum" ("A new order of the ages").

Symbolism

The elements of the Great Seal are rich in symbolism. The bald eagle represents strength and freedom. The olive branch and arrows denote the power of peace and war, respectively. The thirteen stars and stripes symbolize the original thirteen colonies that declared independence from Britain.

The pyramid on the reverse side signifies strength and duration, with the unfinished top indicating that the nation is still growing. The Eye of Providence suggests divine guidance, and the Latin mottoes reflect the founding ideals of the United States.

Usage

The Great Seal is used to authenticate documents such as treaties and commissions. The United States Secretary of State is the official custodian of the seal. The seal is also used on the Presidential Seal of the United States and the Seal of the Vice President of the United States.

Also see

• Seal of the President of the United States
• Seal of the Vice President of the United States
• E Pluribus Unum
• Novus ordo seclorum
• Eye of Providence