Pennsylvania State Seal

The State seal shows a shield with a sailing ship, a plough, and three sheaves of wheat. The combination of symbols on the shield may represent seals from early Pennsylvania counties. The plough, which was on Chester County's seal, symbolizes the rich resources of the Commonwealth. The ship under sail, which was on Philadelphia County's seal, symbolizes the commercial network across the state and around the world.The wheat symbolizes the harvest of not only agriculture and minerals but also of creative minds. The seal of Sussex county, Delaware (originally a part of the Pennsylvania province) had three sheaves of wheat.

The Indian cornstalk of plenty and an olive branch of peace are on either side of the shield.

The crest of the shield is a Bald eagle with outstretched wings symbolizing sovereignty with hope and purity.Return to Pennsylvania Unit Study

Courtesy of State of Pennsylvania