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Great Seal Centennial Medal of 1882 The most accurate version of the Great Seal ever produced by the U.S. Government is this commemorative medal minted in 1882. The rays of light are "breaking through a cloud" over the eagle's head, as specified in the official written description of the Great Seal. Also, the stars are in a random pattern. This is how they should be, because no shape to the constellation of stars is specified in the Seal's description. It would be inappropriate to form the stars into a heart, dollar sign, or other recognizable pattern. All official dies of the Great Seal are technically incorrect because their stars form a hexagram, a six-pointed star. The Centennial Medal is available on an 11x17" poster that includes the original 1782 description and explanation of the Great Seal. Indian Peace Medals were also accurately based on the written description.

Historical content is based on the official history of the Great Seal.
GreatSeal.com is not affiliated with the U.S. Government.
Author and webwright: John D. MacArthur