South Carolina State Seal - Official Symbol and Meaning #1908700 (License: Personal Use)

The seal displays two oval scenes: left shows a palmetto tree with crossed swords and dates March 26 and April 4, referencing the 1776 defense of Charleston; right depicts a woman holding a laurel branch with the Latin motto “Dum Spiro Spero” (While I Breathe, I Hope) above a rising sun. Encircling text includes “Animis Opibusque Parati” (Prepared in Mind and Resources) and “Meliorem Lapsa Locavit 1776.”

Used on official government documents, websites, and educational resources about South Carolina history; serves users seeking civic information, historical context, or state symbolism for research or design purposes.