Hawaii State Seal

The Great Seal of the State of Hawaii, officially designated in 1959, draws its inspiration from the state's rich history and unique transition to statehood. Based on the territorial seal, it was modified to include the words "State of Hawaii" at the top and the year "1959" within the circle, signifying the year Hawaii became the 50th state of the United States. The seal's central design is a quartered heraldic shield, representing the state's eight main islands and other significant elements. On the left side stands King Kamehameha I, who unified the Hawaiian Islands, while on the right side stands the Goddess of Liberty holding the Hawaiian flag. A rising sun, replaced by the royal crown from the original coat of arms, symbolizes the birth of a new state. The phoenix, denoting death and resurrection, signifies Hawaii's transition from monarchy to democracy. Below the shield, a phoenix emerges from flames, and eight taro leaves, banana foliage, and maidenhair fern adorn the compartment, representing Hawaiian flora and the eight main islands. The state motto, "Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono," translating to "The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness," is prominently featured, underscoring Hawaii's commitment to righteousness and its historical significance.