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 Irish Free State the grounds that the change in procedure had not been agreed. A compromise was negotiated whereby the Free State would use a separate "external seal" in the custody of its Minister for External Affairs. The external seal, designed by Percy Metcalfe, had on its obverse the same harp image as the Great Seal, and on its reverse the same image of the monarch enthroned as the British Great Seal of the Realm. George V formally presented the external seal to John W. Dulanty on 18 January 1932 at Sandringham House. The External Great Seal was used only on ratifications and