Michigan State Seal

The Great Seal of the State of Michigan features the coat of arms of Michigan on a light blue field. The shield depicts the Sun rising over a lake and peninsula, symbolizing the state's natural beauty. A man holding a long gun with a raised hand represents both peace and the ability to defend one's rights. The elk and moose within the shield are symbols of Michigan, while the bald eagle represents the United States. The seal includes three Latin mottos: "E Pluribus Unum" (Out of many, one), a motto of the United States, "Tuebor" (I will defend), and "Si Quæris Peninsulam Amœnam Circumspice" (If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you), the official state motto. Adopted in 1835, the seal serves as a significant emblem of Michigan, and its use is governed by state law.