The Coat of Arms of the United States appears on scores of official documents, signs, uniforms and buildings -- here, engraved in the facade of the U.S. Customs House in Philadelphia. The design is overflowing with symbolism, from the obvious to the arcane. The bald eagle is the central feature, of course, being our national emblem for its majesty, strength, and long life. Representation of the 13 original states is present in several ways -- eagle holds a bundle of 13 arrows in its left talon, an olive branch with 13 leaves and olives in its right, and a glory of 13 stars above its head. The eagle faces towards the olive branch to symbolize a preference for peace. The scroll clutched in its beak displays the motto E pluribus unum, meaning Out of Many, One.

09.28.17