The state seal of New York features the state arms (officially adopted in 1778) surrounded by the words "The Great Seal of the State of New York". A banner below shows the New York State motto Excelsior, Latin for "Ever Upward", and the secondary motto E Pluribus Unum, Latin for "Out of Many, One"—adopted in 2020. [1] [2]

New York’s official state motto, adopted in 1778, is a single word: “Excelsior.” Excelsior is Latin for “ever upward.” The motto appears on the state coat of arms, which is featured on New York’s state seal and state flag.

The banner shows the State motto--Excelsior--which means "Ever Upward," and E pluribus unum—which means "Out of many one." E pluribus unum was added as part of FY 2021 Enacted Budget. The arms of New York State were officially adopted in 1778.

Mar 28, 2023 · The state motto of New York, “Excelsior,” has a rich history steeped in tradition and meaning. It embodies the spirit of progress and excellence that defines the Empire State. In this blog, we will explore the top five facts about the state motto for New York.

May 17, 2024 · New York's state motto is “Excelsior,” which in Latin literally translates to “ever upward.” The state motto of New York was adopted in 1778 and is featured on both the state’s seal and flag.

Coat of arms of New York from 1896 until the addition of second motto in 2020. The first version of the coat of arms on the state flag was adopted in 1778 and has been slightly redesigned over the years.

Mar 11, 2010 · Below, the banner exclaims "Excelsior" -- the State motto representing our continuous search for excellence and belief in a strong, bright and ever better future.

Mar 27, 2023 · The New York State motto, “Excelsior”, has been used since 1778 and is Latin for “Ever Upward”. It’s a powerful word that encapsulates the ambitious spirit of New Yorkers and the relentless pursuit of progress.

Mar 5, 2025 · Officially, New York’s state motto is “Excelsior,” a Latin term meaning “Ever Upward.” This aspirational phrase reflects the state’s ambition, progress, and constant drive toward improvement. As for its nickname, New York is famously known as “The Empire State.”

The New York state motto Excelsior is meant to represent the state’s continuous search for excellence. Find out the more fun facts and interesting history of the state's motto.