In God We Trust: A History of the Motto on American Coins
The Legend of Liberty
The legend "Liberty" has been a staple of American coinage since the nation's founding. It first appeared on the 1793 Flowing Hair cent and has been featured on every subsequent issue of US currency.
The legend is typically depicted as a half-draped woman with flowing hair, symbolizing the ideals of freedom and independence. In God We Trust flanks the legend on modern coins.
The Adoption of "In God We Trust"
The motto "In God We Trust" was not adopted on American coinage until 1864, during the Civil War. The phrase had been used as the official motto of the United States since 1863.
The motto was added to coins at the urging of Reverend M.R. Watkinson, who wrote to Treasury Secretary Salmon P. Chase suggesting that it would serve as a reminder of the nation's dependence on divine providence.
Variations on the Motto
Over the years, the design of "In God We Trust" on American coins has varied slightly. The most common variation is the addition of the word "liberty" above the phrase.
Other variations include the addition of the words "of America" or "We Trust in God." These variations have been used on commemorative coins and special issues.
Controversy and Challenges
The motto "In God We Trust" has been the subject of controversy and legal challenges over the years. Algunos grupos han argumentado que la frase es una violación de la separación de la iglesia y el estado.
Sin embargo, la Corte Suprema de los Estados Unidos ha dictaminado que la frase tiene un propósito secular y no es una promoción de la religión. El lema sigue siendo una característica familiar de la moneda estadounidense en la actualidad.
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