Vintage "E Pluribus Unum" Eagle Bookends

Offered is a vintage set of brass bookends featuring an eagle with widely spread wings. The eagle holds arrows in its talons and appears with a large shield against its chest. The eagle carries a banner in its mouth that reads "E Pluribus Unum."

E pluribus unum in Latin translates to "Out of many, one." E pluribus unum is a 13-letter traditional motto of the United States of America, also appearing on the Great Seal. The phrase suggests that out of many states, or colonies, emerges a single nation. Pierre Eugene du Simitiere suggested the 13-letter motto in 1776 to the committee of the Continental Congress responsible for developing the Great Seal. At the time of the American Revolution, the exact phrase appeared prominently on the title page of every issue of a popular periodical, The Gentleman's Magazine. 

CONDITION:

Good condition, especially considering age and use. Tarnish to finish. Some scratches. Sturdy and heavy enough to hold a large set of books.

Dimensions:  7 5/8" H x 5" W x 2 3/4" D.