Pennsylvania Motto
Virtue, Liberty, and Independence
Pennsylvania’s state motto is “Virtue, Liberty, and Independence.” It appears on the state coat of arms as well as Pennsylvania’s state flag.
The motto first appeared on the Pennsylvania coat of arms which was designed by Caleb Lownes in 1778. Between then and 1873, the coat of arms went through many changes and modifications.
In 1874 the Pennsylvania Legislature appointed a commission to decide an official version. Interestingly, in 1875, the commission opted for a coat of arms that was virtually identical to the design established by Mr. Lownes in 1778.