Annuit Coeptis: The Founding Fathers' Latin Motto

"Annuit coeptis" is one of the two Latin mottos featured on the reverse side of the Great Seal of the United States. It is a phrase taken from Virgil's Aeneid and literally translates to "He [God] has favored our undertakings." The founding fathers chose this motto to represent the divine favor they believed guided the establishment of the United States.

Origin and Meaning

• The phrase "annuit coeptis" is derived from the line "Iuppiter omnipotens, audacibus adnue coeptis" in Virgil's Aeneid, which translates to "Jupiter Almighty, favor [my] bold undertakings."
• The motto is meant to convey the founding fathers' belief that Providence (God) favored the establishment of the United States.
• It is featured along with the other motto "Novus Ordo Seclorum" (A New Order of the Ages) and the Eye of Providence on the reverse side of the Great Seal.

The Great Seal of the United States

The Great Seal of the United States, bearing the mottos "Annuit Coeptis" and "Novus Ordo Seclorum," was designed by the founding fathers to represent the values and ideals of the newly formed nation. The reverse side features:

• The Eye of Providence, representing the watchful eye of God over the United States
• The unfinished pyramid, representing the strength and endurance of the nation
• The Latin motto "Annuit Coeptis" above the eye, meaning "He [God] has favored our undertakings"
• The Latin motto "Novus Ordo Seclorum" below the pyramid, meaning "A New Order of the Ages"

Use on United States Currency and Coins

The Latin motto "Annuit Coeptis" is prominently featured on various United States coins and Federal Reserve notes, serving as a reminder of the nation's founding principles and the belief in divine guidance.

• It appears on the reverse side of the $1 Federal Reserve note, along with the Eye of Providence and the phrase "Novus Ordo Seclorum."
• The motto is also featured on the reverse of several United States commemorative coins, such as the 2021 Morgan and Peace Silver Dollars.
• Other coins that bear the motto include the American Silver Eagle, American Gold Eagle, and various bullion coins.

Legacy of the Founding Fathers

The use of the Latin motto "Annuit Coeptis" on United States currency and coins serves as a lasting tribute to the founding fathers and their vision for the nation. It represents the enduring belief in divine guidance and the importance of the principles upon which the United States was established.

Relationship with Continental Congress and Charles Thomson

• The mottos "Annuit Coeptis" and "Novus Ordo Seclorum" were proposed by Charles Thomson, the Secretary of the Continental Congress, for the design of the Great Seal.
• Thomson, a former Latin teacher, selected these mottos to represent the ideals and aspirations of the newly formed nation.
• The Continental Congress played a crucial role in the American Revolution and the establishment of the United States, making the inclusion of these mottos on the Great Seal highly significant.

Symbolic Representation on Federal Reserve Notes

The presence of "Annuit Coeptis" and other symbolic elements on Federal Reserve notes carries deep meaning and significance:

• The Eye of Providence represents the watchful eye of God over the United States and its endeavors.
• The unfinished pyramid symbolizes the strength and endurance of the nation, with the motto "Novus Ordo Seclorum" suggesting the establishment of a new world order.
• The presence of these symbols and mottos on Federal Reserve notes reinforces the nation's commitment to its founding principles and the belief in divine guidance.

Influence on United States Numismatics

The use of the Latin motto "Annuit Coeptis" on United States coins and currency has had a significant impact on the field of numismatics (the study of coins and currency):

• Collectors and enthusiasts place great value on coins and notes featuring the motto, as they represent a connection to the nation's history and founding ideals.
• The inclusion of the motto on commemorative coins and bullion pieces has become a tradition, further solidifying its importance in American numismatics.
• The study of the symbolism and meaning behind the motto has become an integral part of understanding the historical and cultural significance of United States coinage and currency.

Conclusion

The Latin motto "Annuit Coeptis," chosen by the founding fathers and prominently displayed on the Great Seal of the United States and various coins and Federal Reserve notes, serves as a powerful reminder of the nation's origins and the belief in divine guidance that shaped its establishment. It represents a lasting tribute to the principles and values upheld by the founders and continues to resonate with Americans today, serving as a symbol of the enduring legacy of the founding fathers.