Statue of Liberty - Iconic Symbol of Freedom in New York Harbor #1892537 (License: Personal Use)

This iconic copper statue, gifted by France in 1886, depicts Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom, wearing a radiant crown and holding a torch aloft. She clutches a tabula ansata inscribed with “JULY IV MDCCLXXVI,” commemorating the U.S. Declaration of Independence. The green patina results from natural oxidation of the copper exterior over time.

Used on travel guides, history pages, educational resources, and tourism websites; matches user intent for learning about U.S. landmarks, planning visits to NYC, or researching American symbolism.