Dear Morley Evans,
Here is the official explanation, from a US government site:
" The seal's reverse side is sometimes referred to as the spiritual
side. It contains a 13-step pyramid with the year 1776 in Roman
numerals at the base. At the top of the pyramid is the Eye of
Providence and above is the motto Annuit Coeptis, meaning "It [the Eye
of Providence] is favorable to our undertakings" or "He favors our
undertakings." Below the pyramid, a scroll reads, Novus Ordo Seclorum,
meaning "New Order of the Ages." It refers to 1776 as the beginning of
the American new era."
(SOURCE: Ben's Guide to US Government, "Symbols of U.S. Government:
The Great Seal of the United States",
<http://bensguide.gpo.gov/3-5/symbols/seal.html>).
" What is the significance of the symbols on the back of the
one-dollar bill? I'm particularly interested in the eye and the
pyramid.
The eye and the pyramid shown on the reverse side of the one-dollar
bill are in the Great Seal of the United States. The Great Seal was
first used on the reverse of the one-dollar Federal Reserve note in
1935. The Department of State is the official keeper of the Seal. They
believe that the most accurate explanation of a pyramid on the Great
Seal is that it symbolizes strength and durability. The unfinished
pyramid means that the United States will always grow, improve and
build. In addition, the "All-Seeing Eye" located above the pyramid
suggests the importance of divine guidance in favor of the American
cause. The inscription ANNUIT COEPTIS translates as "He (God) has
favored our undertakings," and refers to the many instances of Divine
Providence during our Government's formation. In addition, the
inscription NOVUS ORDO SECLORUM translates as "A new order of the
ages," and signifies a new American era."
(SOURCE: US Department of Treasury, FAQ Currency
<http://www.ustreas.gov/education/faq/currency/portraits.shtml>).
A longer explanation on the Great Seal could be found here:
The Great Seal of the United States
<http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=exitkids.html&to=http://www.state.gov/www/publications/great_seal.pdf&alias=The+U.S.+State+Department&log=linklog>.
I hope this answered your question. Please contact me if you need any
further clarification on this answer before you rate it. My search
terms: site:gov (for US government sites) and "pyramide"; "eye". |
