According to the VA’s book on the bird, the bald eagle initially became a national emblem in 1776 when it was featured on an early Massachusetts copper penny.
A committee was established to create a seal for the new country after the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4 of that year.
Three committees and six years passed before the current seal was chosen. The design, created by Charles Thomson, secretary of the Continental Congress, was approved on June 20, 1782.
“The arrows in the eagle’s talons and the olive branch symbolise the might of both peace and battle. The National Museum of American Diplomacy states that.
The eagle’s constant stare on the olive branch symbolises our country’s wish for peace while being prepared to defend itself.
