West Virginia State Seal

The Great Seal of the State of West Virginia, adopted in September 1863, holds significant symbolism. In its center, a boulder bears the inscription "June 20, 1863," marking the state's date of admission. Crossed rifles and a liberty cap represent West Virginia's fight for freedom, while two figures on either side of the boulder symbolize agriculture and industry. A farmer with an ax and plow stands beside a cornstalk, and a miner with a pickax is accompanied by an anvil and sledgehammer. The outer ring features the state's name and motto, "Montani Semper Liberi" (Mountaineers are Always Free). The reverse, known as the lesser seal, is the governor's official seal, with the motto "Libertas E Fidelitate" (Liberty out of Fidelity). West Virginia's motto, "Montani Semper Liberi," was officially adopted in 1872, reflecting the state's enduring commitment to freedom and independence.