Seal of West Virginia

The seal of the U.S. state of West Virginia is in use since 1863.

Shaping

The seal consists of a front and a back side. The front is the official state seal, while the back of the governor serves as the official seal.

The state seal represents the natural resources of the state, its economic strength and determination of its residents

Centered on the seal represented a large boulder which the strength, firmness and stability of the state and its inhabitants.

Carved into the stone is the date "June 20, 1863 ." The June 20, 1863 was the day that West Virginia joined the Union.

Before that lie crosswise two hunting rifles and at the intersection of two rifles, a Phrygian cap. This Phrygian Cap, also called liberty cap, is shown on the seals of the states of New Jersey and New York, as well as on the official seals of the U.S. Army and the U.S. Senate.

The boulder is flanked by two men represent important facets of the economy of the state. To the left in front of a grain handing a peasant, a symbol of agriculture, with an ax in his hand and the right hand, in front of the hammer and anvil, a miner, a symbol of industry, shouldering a pimple.

On the edge of the seal are the words "State of West Virginia " and the motto of the State in Latin

This motto is meant to express the spirit of independence, which is inherent to all residents of West Virginia.

The seal is found again as a central element in the flag of West Virginia.

History

Article 2, Section 7 of the Constitution of West Virginia shall respect the seal following:

After West Virginia joined the Union on June 20, 1863 put the Legislature on September 26, 1863 established the official form of the seal.