Great Seal of the United States 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").
Great Seal of the Philippines adoption and the Commonwealth reverted to the 1935 seal on 23 February 1941. The Second Philippine Republic of 1943 to 1945 adopted a different seal than the one used today. The seal adopted on October 1943 by then President Jose P. Laurel through Republic Act No. 5 is composed of a triangular emblem encircled by a double marginal circle. The law dictates the seal to be: After the dissolution of the Philippine Commonwealth and the granting of full independence of the Philippines by the United States in 1946. A new coat of arms was adopted along with a great seal.