Massachusetts State Seal

The official state seal of Massachusetts is a historically significant emblem encircled by the Latin text "Sigillum Reipublicæ Massachusettensis," meaning "The Seal of the Republic of Massachusetts." Adopted in 1780, it features the Coat of Arms of Massachusetts, reaffirmed during the Revolutionary period. This seal has undergone various transformations throughout history, with the initial seal depicting a missionary and commercial message and evolving through King Philip's War and the Revolutionary period. The current form, adopted in 1890, replaced the Native American imagery with a composite figure. The seal's design has stirred controversy in recent years due to its depiction of a sword above a Native American's head, prompting discussions about potential changes to the imagery. In response, a commission was established in 2021 to explore modifications to the state flag and seal.