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The symbols contained on a United States One Dollar bill have a significant history and each has its own relevance that coalesces into a common theme. These symbols are not monetary in nature and are actually the elements that make up the Great Seal of the United States of America.

The obverse, or front of the seal, located on the rear right side of the bill, depicts the emergence of the new United States and the most prominent elements contributing to its formation.

The American Bald Eagle symbolizes the United States "on the wing and rising". In its stronger, right talon, it holds the Olive Branch with thirteen leaves, a symbol of peace. Its head also faces the Olive Branch, symbolizing its preference to seek peace rather than war. In its left talon it holds a bunch of thirteen arrows, representing the original thirteen states and the power of war. The tightly placed arrows also depict the strength in unity. The official explanation also refers to the fact that the power of war and peace rest with the Congress.

The shield emblazoned on the breast of the Eagle represents the United States, standing free and unsupported. The thirteen vertical stripes represent the unity of the original thirteen states and the solid horizontal band represents the Congress which they all support.

The Eagle holds a scroll in its beak, upon which is written E Pluribus Unum. This phrase, translated to "Out of many, one", continues the theme of unity. These words together contain thirteen letters.

Above the Eagle's head is a constellation of thirteen stars surrounded by rays of light breaking through the clouds. This constellation is meant to depict "a new State taking its place and rank among other sovereign powers".

The reverse, or back of the seal, located on the rear left side of the dollar bill, represents the solid foundation from which the United States has emerged.

An unfinished Pyramid represents "strength and duration". The pyramid has thirteen steps, or strata, representing the thirteen original states. The fact that it is unfinished suggests that there is always work to be done.

Above the Pyramid, at its highest point, or Zenith, sits the Eye of Providence surrounded by rays of light, or Glory. The Eye looks over the United States and is content with its endeavors. The two words over the Eye, "Annuit Coeptis", translate into "favors its undertakings". In this case, it implies the actions taken by the United States are condoned and accepted by God. This phrase also contains thirteen letters.

The base of the Pyramid is inscribed with MDCCLXXVI which is 1776 in Roman numerals. The number represents the year that the Declaration of Independence was signed.

Beneath the Pyramid is a scroll with the words "Novus Ordo Seclorum". These words translate to a "new order of the ages". The intent of the designer was to signify "the beginning of a new American Era" which started in 1776.

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