By Steven Messina
The Great Seal of William Barton
What is the Great Seal?
The Great Seal is used for official US documents, as well as on the American dollar.
Who is William Barton?
Barton was a studious heraldist and artist, which had influenced the design of his Great Seal
All-seeing eye that represents God
"With God's Favor" (God favoring)
"Everlasting" (Through the years)
Thirteen golden steps signaling strength and duration
American Soldier bearing a blue baton and saber
Maiden clad in a white garment bearing a crown and star-ridden blue sash with a bird perched on her finger
Eagle clutching an American flag and a laurel-tipped sword
"In defense of liberty"
"Only virtue unconquered"
Nested pheonix within a crest resembling American flag
References
MacArthur D., John. Great Seal.com, greatseal.com/committees/thirdcomm/index.html.
Wallenfeldt, Jeff. Timeline of the American Revolution. Encyclopoedia Britannica, https://www.britannica/com/list/timeline-of-the-american-revolution.
Rubincam, Milton. A Memoir of the Life of William Barton, A.M. (1754-1817). Pennsylvania History, vol. XII, no. 3, July 1945. p. 180., https://journals.psu.edu/phj/article/view/21538/21307