Pennsylvania State Seal

The Great Seal of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, authorized by the Pennsylvania General Assembly in 1791, serves as a symbol of authenticity for verifying the legality and official status of state proclamations and documents. Uniquely, it features an obverse and reverse. The obverse displays a shield with symbols representing commerce, labor, perseverance, and agriculture's significance to the state's economy and geography. An eagle above the shield symbolizes sovereignty, while an outer ring reads "Seal of the State of Pennsylvania," despite the official Commonwealth designation. The reverse side, or counterseal, portrays Lady Liberty prevailing over Tyranny in the form of a lion, accompanied by the warning, "Both Can't Survive." The Secretary of the Commonwealth is responsible for safeguarding and using the Great Seal to authenticate government documents and enact new laws.