New Mexico State Seal

The Great Seal of the State of New Mexico, enshrined in the state's constitution, is a symbol with deep historical roots. Based on the seal of the New Mexico Territory established in 1851, it was officially adopted in 1913, a year after New Mexico became the 47th state. The design features an American bald eagle and a Mexican harpy eagle, symbolizing the state's diverse heritage and the change of sovereignty in 1846. The motto "Crescit Eundo," Latin for "It grows as it goes," originates from Lucretius's epic poem and signifies dynamic progress. This phrase was added to the seal in 1882 and was adopted as the state motto when New Mexico achieved statehood in 1912. The seal serves as a powerful emblem of the state's rich history and cultural heritage.