Great Seal > Symbols > Explanation Explanation of the Great Seal's Symbolism In addition to the heraldic description of the Great Seal approved by Congress on June 20, 1782, Charles Thomson also commented on the symbolism of the design. It is the only official explanation offered about the meaning of the Great Seal. Main Points Remarks and Explanation – June 20, 1782 The shield is composed of thirteen stripes that represent the several states joined into one solid compact, supporting the chief which unites the whole and represents Congress. The stripes are kept closely united by the chief and the chief depends upon that union and the strength resulting from it. The motto E Pluribus Unum alludes to this union. The shield is born on the breast of an American Eagle without any other supporters to denote that the United States of America ought to rely on their own virtue. The olive branch and arrows denote the power of peace and war which is exclusively vested in Congress. The constellation of thirteen stars denotes a new state taking its place and rank among other sovereign powers. The pyramid signifies strength and duration. The Eye over it and the motto Annuit Coeptis allude to the many signal interpositions of providence in favor of the American cause. The date 1776 underneath is that of the Declaration of Independence and the words Novus Ordo Seclorum under it signify the beginning of the new American Era, which commences from that date. Exact Text Remarks and Explanation – June 20, 1782 The Escutcheon is composed of the chief & pale, the two most honorable ordinaries. The Pieces, paly, represent the several states all joined in one solid compact entire, supporting a Chief, which unites the whole & represents Congress. The Motto alludes to this union. The pales in the arms are kept closely united by the chief and the Chief depends upon that union & the strength resulting from it for its support, to denote the Confederacy of the United States of America & the preservation of their union through Congress. The colours of the pales are those used in the flag of the United States of America; White signifies purity and innocence, Red, hardiness & valor, and Blue, the colour of the Chief signifies vigilance, perseverance & justice. The Olive branch and arrows denote the power of peace & war which is exclusively vested in Congress. The Constellation denotes a new State taking its place and rank among other sovereign powers. The Escutcheon is born on the breast of an American Eagle without any other supporters to denote that the United States of America ought to rely on their own Virtue.– Reverse. The pyramid signifies Strength and Duration: The Eye over it & the Motto allude to the many signal interpositions of providence in favour of the American cause. The date underneath is that of the Declaration of Independence and the words under it signify the beginning of the new American Æra, which commences from that date.– Glossary of Heraldic Terms used in the Remarks chief = top part of the shield escutcheon = shield pale, pieces, paly = vertical stripes on the shield See accurate versions of the Great Seal on the Indian Peace Medals given by President Washington. Seven different dies of the Great Seal have been used since 1782, but the original written description remains unchanged. Main Sections of GreatSeal.com Preliminary Designs suggested by three committees Myth and Misinformation about the Great Seal The Power of Peace and the Great Seal Symbols on the Seal's two sides Mottoes of the Great Seal Front page overview