Oregon State Seal

The Seal of the State of Oregon, designed by Harvey Gordon in 1857, predates Oregon's statehood and is mandated by Article VI of the Oregon Constitution. It succeeded the Salmon Seal of the Provisional Government and the Seal of the Oregon Territory. The original Salmon Seal, symbolizing fishing and agriculture, was replaced when Oregon became a territory in 1849 with a more complex design featuring a sailing vessel, a beaver, a Native American, an eagle, and the motto "Alis Volat Propriis," meaning "She flies with her own wings." In preparation for statehood, a new seal was adopted in 1857, featuring an elk added to Harvey Gordon's design, symbolizing the state's abundant game. The seal's outer ring reads "State of Oregon" and "1859," signifying its statehood year. The inner circle depicts an American eagle, a shield with various elements, and 33 stars representing the states upon Oregon's entry into the union. The seal appears on the obverse of the state flag of Oregon, and its design is regulated by Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) chapter 186.