<P> The supporter of the shield is a bald eagle with its wings outstretched ( or `` displayed '' , in heraldic terms ) . From the eagle 's perspective , it holds a bundle of 13 arrows in its left talon ( referring to the 13 original states ) , and an olive branch in its right talon , together symbolizing that the United States has `` a strong desire for peace , but will always be ready for war . '' ( see Olive Branch Petition ) . Although not specified by law , the olive branch is usually depicted with 13 leaves and 13 olives , again representing the 13 original states . The eagle has its head turned towards the olive branch , on its right side , said to symbolize a preference for peace . In its beak , the eagle clutches a scroll with the motto E pluribus unum ( `` Out of Many , One '' ) . Over its head there appears a `` glory '' with 13 mullets ( stars ) on a blue field . In the current ( and several previous ) dies of the great seal , the 13 stars above the eagle are arranged in rows of 1 - 4 - 3 - 4 - 1 , forming a six - pointed star . </P>
<P> The supporter of the shield is a bald eagle with its wings outstretched ( or `` displayed '' , in heraldic terms ) . From the eagle 's perspective , it holds a bundle of 13 arrows in its left talon ( referring to the 13 original states ) , and an olive branch in its right talon , together symbolizing that the United States has `` a strong desire for peace , but will always be ready for war . '' ( see Olive Branch Petition ) . Although not specified by law , the olive branch is usually depicted with 13 leaves and 13 olives , again representing the 13 original states . The eagle has its head turned towards the olive branch , on its right side , said to symbolize a preference for peace . In its beak , the eagle clutches a scroll with the motto E pluribus unum ( `` Out of Many , One '' ) . Over its head there appears a `` glory '' with 13 mullets ( stars ) on a blue field . In the current ( and several previous ) dies of the great seal , the 13 stars above the eagle are arranged in rows of 1 - 4 - 3 - 4 - 1 , forming a six - pointed star . </P>
words on the front of great seal of the united states
words on the front of great seal of the united states
E pluribus unum
E pluribus unum