Great Seal Hand Press
United States early 20th century
This hand-operated seal press was used by diplomats to emboss official documents and passports with the Great Seal. The exterior is decorated with a stylized illustration of the U.S. coat of arms, which includes a banner in the eagle’s beak with the Latin motto of the United States, “E Pluribus Unum” (“Out of Many, One”). Consular press seals are essential tools of the trade for diplomats. They are used to mark official approval for functions such as notarial services, issuing visas and passports, and performing certain shipping and seamen services.
