105326

The Great Seal

It is the national emblem of the United States, adopted on 20“' June 1782 by resolution of the Continental Congress.

It is the official impression madę on wax or documents, such as treaties and Presidential proclamations, to indicate tliat the United States guarantees their authenticity.

The obverse shows an American eagle with wings and claws ontstretched.

-    The eagle is grasping an olive branch, symbolizing peace, In one claw and a sheaf of 13 arrows, one for eacli of the original States, in the other.

-    On the breast of the eagle is a shield with 13 altemate red and white stripes.

In his beak is a ribbon with the Latin words: the 13-letter motto E Pluribus Unurn (Out of Many, stars)

On the reverse side is an unfinished pyramid standing for enduring strength.