What do the ships on the California state seal represent?
The ships, on a representation of the Sacramento River, symbolize the commercial greatness of California. A sheaf of grain in the foreground represents California’s agricultural wealth. In fact, many who came looking for gold found farming more profitable.
Who made the California state seal?
Major R. S. Garnett
The seal was designed by Major R. S. Garnett of the United States Army, and proposed by Caleb Lyon, a clerk of the convention. The Roman goddess of wisdom, Minerva, has at her feet a grizzly bear and clusters of grapes representing wildlife and agricultural richness.
Why was the Great Seal needed?
Charles Thomson, Secretary of the Continental Congress, designed the 1782 seal to symbolize our country’s strength, unity, and independence. The olive branch and the arrows held in the eagle’s talons denote the power of peace and war.
Can I use the California state seal?
Today, it is a misdemeanor to use any representation or facsimile of the Great Seal of the State of California for commercial purposes.
What does the Seal on the dollar bill mean?
Charles Thomson, Secretary of the Continental Congress, designed the 1782 seal to symbolize our country’s strength, unity, and independence. The olive branch and the arrows held in the eagle’s talons denote the power of peace and war. The seal shares symbolism with the colors of the American flag.
What does the olive branch in the eagle’s right talon represent?
The eagle holds an olive branch in its right talon in one claw and 13 arrows in the other talon. An olive branch is a symbol for peace. A national shield appears in front of the eagle which includes 13 vertical stripes to symbolize the 13 original states joined under a unified force.
What does the back of the Great Seal mean?
Great Seal of the United States, official seal of the United States of America. The design of the obverse is the coat of arms of the United States—an official emblem, mark of identification, and symbol of the authority of the government. On the reverse is an unfinished pyramid topped with an eye enclosed in a triangle.