Design

• The New York State flag was modeled after a Revolutionary War flag. The coat of arms, displayed on a blue background or "field," was originally adopted in 1778.
  
  

Changes

• In 1896 the flag was changed to a buff background. It was unpopular, though, so the state Legislature changed it back to blue in 1901.
  
  

Symbolism

• The shield depicts a scene along the Hudson River. Two watercraft--a three-masted ship and a sloop--represent commerce. The bald eagle with its head facing to the right (the viewer's left) is thought to be a good omen.
  
  

Justice

• The two figures on either side of the shield represent Justice and Liberty. The sword and scale in Justice's hands represent punishment and fairness.
  
  

Liberty

• Liberty wears a cap given to emancipated Roman slaves that was popularized as a symbol of liberty during the French Revolution. The crown at her feet represents triumph over the British government during the American Revolution.
  
  

Motto

• Beneath the shield is the state motto "Excelsior" with means "ever upward."