Ready Reference Files

Great Seal of the United States (Symbolism)

On the back of the dollar bill, there is a picture of a pyramid with an eye above it. The pyramid is called the Pyramid of Progress, and the eye is the Eye of Providence.

The Pyramid of Progress is on one face of the Great Seal of the United States, adopted in 1782. Its Egyptian influence recognizes what was believed at the time to be the birthplace of civilization. The pyramid, or mastaba, represents "solid strength and duration."

The unfinished pyramid symbolizes the goal of the U.S. to continue building, growing and improving, with a continuous evaluation of truth. The 13 layers of the pyramid represent the original 13 states, the separate stones local self-government.

The Eye of Providence, or All-Seeing Eye is also of Middle Eastern origin and indicates the supremacy of the spiritual over the material. The eye also represents education and freedom of knowledge.

The Latin words annuit coeptis, meaning "God has favored our undertakings", contain 13 letters symbolizing the 13 states. The words novus ordo seclorum mean "the new order of the ages", beginning in 1776 with the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

Source: Changing Times, May, 1982.
See also: Parker, Nancy Winslow. Money, Money, Money: The Meaning of the Art and Symbols on United States Paper Currency. HarperCollins, New York, 1995. (J 769.5 PAR)

Verified by: GM, 6/98

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