Seal of Illinois

The current version of the Illinois state seal was authorized in 1867 (the central seal design also appears on the state flag). All State Seals

The Illinois state seal features a bald eagle holding a banner in its beak with the state motto, “State Sovereignty, National Union” written on it. The words, “Seal of the State of Illinois” and “Aug. 26, 1818,” are contained in the outer circle of the seal (August 26, 1818, is the date that the first Illinois Constitution was signed).