Arms of New Jersey

detail from an engraving of a facsimile of the  Declaration of Independence. 
Published by John Binns, 1818/19.

Library of Congress Online Catalog http://lccn.loc.gov/2003690785

New Jersey's Great Seal and Arms was designed by Pierre Eugene du Simitiere and presented in May, 1777, to the Legislature, which was then meeting in the Indian King Tavern in Haddonfield. The central part of the deaign is a shield bearing  three plows  honoring the state's agricultural tradition. The supporting female figures are Liberty, seen on the left holding a staff topped with a liberty cap, and on the right is Ceres, the Roman goddess of grain,  and agircultues, she holds a cornucopia filled with harvested produce, symbolizing abundance. The scene reflects the State motto "Liberty and Prosperity".

The detail of the State Arms is taken from a large facsimile of the Declaration of Independence, published by John Binns, in a design registered in 1818 and printed in 1819. Encircling the text of the Declaration is a ceremonial chain with medallions bearing portraits of Founding Fathers and the arms of each state.  Binns hoped to distribute 200 copies of the design and it seems that at least one made it to England where, between 1826 and 1830, Thomas Mayer, potter of Stoke-upon Trent, used it to produce a series of designs. It is believed that he used 12 of original 13  states’ coats of arms as New Hampshire has never been seen in this series of pottery prints.

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Potter: Thomas Mayer

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View pattern details » Arms of New Jersey Thomas Mayer