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Have you ever noticed the intricate emblem on Montana’s official documents and wondered about the story behind those majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and crossed tools?

The Montana State Seal is far more than decorative artwork—it’s a visual time capsule that has authenticated government documents, represented state authority, and captured the essence of the Treasure State for over 150 years.

For Montana residents, history enthusiasts, and anyone curious about state symbolism, understanding the state seal opens a window into Montana’s founding principles and enduring values.

Whether you’ve seen it embossed on your marriage certificate, displayed at the State Capitol, or printed on official correspondence, this seemingly simple circular design carries profound meaning that connects modern Montana to its territorial roots.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the fascinating origins of Montana’s official emblem, decode the rich symbolism hidden within its landscape imagery, trace its evolution from territorial seal to state symbol, and learn about the laws protecting its use.

• Related article: Montana’s Official Icons

We’ll explore how the motto “Oro y Plata” reflects Montana’s mining heritage, examine what sets Montana’s seal apart from neighboring states, and reveal where you can view this historic emblem in person.

From the pickaxe representing mineral wealth to the plow symbolizing agricultural foundations, every element tells part of Montana’s compelling story.

Let’s embark on a journey through time to understand why the Montana State Seal remains one of America’s most distinctive and historically significant state emblems.

Introduction to Montana’s State Seal

The Montana State Seal stands as a powerful emblem representing the identity, history, and values of the Treasure State. Like all state seals across America, Montana’s official seal serves as more than mere decoration—it functions as a visual constitution, telling the story of the state’s founding principles and natural bounty through carefully chosen symbols.

State seals hold tremendous importance in American governance. They authenticate official documents, appear on state buildings and monuments, and serve as the official mark of state authority. More than legal instruments, these seals capture the essence of a state’s character and aspirations. Montana’s seal is no exception, featuring a stunning landscape that showcases the state’s natural beauty and economic foundations.

Established in 1865 when Montana was still a territory, the seal has undergone several transformations before reaching its current design. The evolution of Montana’s seal reflects the changing identity of the region as it transitioned from territory to statehood in 1889. Throughout this article, we’ll explore the rich symbolism embedded within the Montana State Seal, trace its historical development, examine its official uses, and understand how it continues to represent Montana’s enduring spirit.

From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the Great Falls of the Missouri River, from the tools of mining and agriculture to the state motto “Oro y Plata” (Gold and Silver), each element of the seal tells part of Montana’s compelling story. Join us as we decode this important state symbol and discover what makes Montana’s seal a unique treasure among America’s state emblems.

State Seals and Their Uses

State seals serve as the official emblems of state governments across America, functioning as powerful symbols of authority and authenticity. These intricate designs do far more than decorate government buildings—they play crucial roles in the functioning of state governance and legal systems.

The primary purpose of state seals in government is to authenticate official documents. When a document bears the impression of a state seal, it signifies that the document has been officially sanctioned by the state government. This authentication process transforms ordinary paperwork into legally binding documents with the full weight of governmental authority behind them. The seal essentially serves as the state’s signature, a visual representation of the state’s endorsement.

Various legal documents require the application of state seals to be considered valid. These include executive orders signed by governors, official proclamations, commissions for state officers, and certain types of legislation. Additionally, state seals appear on official certificates like marriage licenses, death certificates, and academic diplomas from state institutions. Court documents, land patents, and interstate compacts also frequently require the state seal to establish their legitimacy.

The symbolic importance of state seals extends beyond their practical applications. Each seal contains imagery and mottos that represent the state’s values, history, and aspirations. These symbols foster a sense of identity and unity among citizens, connecting them to their shared heritage and governmental institutions. During times of political transition or uncertainty, the unchanging nature of the state seal provides continuity and stability, reassuring citizens that the fundamental structures of governance remain intact.

Most states have constitutional requirements regarding their official seals. These provisions typically specify who has custody of the seal (usually the Secretary of State), the general design elements that must be included, and the proper uses of the seal. Some state constitutions even include detailed descriptions of the seal’s appearance, ensuring consistency across generations. These constitutional provisions elevate the seal from a mere administrative tool to a constitutionally protected symbol of state sovereignty.

In an age of digital communication, state seals continue to adapt while maintaining their historical significance. Many states now employ electronic versions of their seals for certain documents, though the physical seal remains essential for the most important state business. Whether embossed on parchment or digitized for electronic documents, state seals continue their centuries-old tradition of authenticating the business of governance and symbolizing the enduring authority of state governments.

Montana State Seal Overview

The Montana State Seal serves as the official emblem of the Treasure State, embodying its rich history and cultural heritage through carefully selected symbolism. The current seal features a circular design approximately 2.25 inches in diameter, with a decorative outer border encircling the central imagery.

At the center of the seal lies a picturesque landscape showcasing Montana’s natural beauty and economic foundations. The foreground depicts a plow, a pickax, and a shovel—tools representing agriculture and mining, the twin pillars of Montana’s early economy. The Great Falls of the Missouri River cascade majestically in the background, while rolling plains stretch toward the distant Rocky Mountains that define the western horizon.

The sun rises over the mountains, symbolizing Montana’s bright future and the dawn of prosperity. This natural tableau is encircled by the state motto “Oro y Plata” (Gold and Silver in Spanish), a reference to the mineral wealth that drove much of Montana’s early development and attracted settlers to the territory.

Officially codified in Montana Code Annotated § 1-1-501, the state seal appears on all official state documents, including legislation, proclamations, and executive orders signed by the governor. The Secretary of State serves as the official custodian of the seal, responsible for its proper use and application.

The seal prominently adorns the facades of state government buildings, particularly the Montana State Capitol in Helena. Visitors will find the emblem displayed above entrances, embedded in floor designs, and incorporated into architectural elements throughout government facilities. The seal also appears on state vehicles, highway welcome signs, and official letterheads.

By law, the seal must maintain specific proportions and color schemes in all official representations. When reproduced in color, the sky and water appear blue, mountains purple, fields green, and the tools in their natural metallic hues. For formal documents, the seal is typically embossed or printed in gold on blue backgrounds, creating a distinctive and dignified appearance befitting its status as Montana’s primary symbol of sovereignty.

Montana State Seal: Symbolism and Elements

The Montana State Seal serves as a visual narrative of the state’s identity, with each element carefully chosen to represent Montana’s values, history, and natural resources. This intricate design incorporates various symbols that collectively tell the story of Montana’s heritage and aspirations.

At the center of the seal lies a landscape that captures Montana’s breathtaking natural beauty. The majestic mountains depicted in the background represent the state’s most defining geographical feature—the Rocky Mountains and other mountain ranges that cover much of western Montana. These mountains symbolize strength, permanence, and the rugged character of both the land and its people. They also acknowledge the state’s name origin, as “Montana” derives from the Spanish word “montaña,” meaning mountain.

Below the mountains flows the Missouri River, one of the major waterways that has shaped Montana’s development. The river represents life, movement, and the vital role of water resources in sustaining agriculture and communities throughout the state. It also symbolizes the historic importance of rivers for transportation and exploration during Montana’s early settlement.

The foreground of the seal features tools that represent Montana’s primary economic foundations. The pickaxe symbolizes the mining industry, which played a crucial role in Montana’s development, particularly during the gold and silver rushes of the 1860s and the subsequent copper mining boom in Butte. This simple tool acknowledges the thousands of miners who helped build Montana and the mineral wealth that continues to be important to the state’s economy.

Alongside the pickaxe, a farmer’s plow represents agriculture, Montana’s other historical economic pillar. The plow honors the farmers and ranchers who cultivated the land and established agricultural traditions that remain vital to the state today. Together, the pickaxe and plow illustrate the balance between extractive industry and sustainable farming that has characterized Montana’s economic development.

The forests depicted in the seal acknowledge Montana’s abundant timber resources and the importance of forestry to the state’s economy and ecology. These forests represent not only economic opportunity but also Montana’s commitment to conservation and the natural beauty that attracts visitors from around the world.

Encircling these images is the state motto on a banner: “Oro y Plata,” Spanish for “Gold and Silver.” This phrase directly references the mineral discoveries that drove much of Montana’s early settlement and economic growth. The use of Spanish in the motto connects to the European exploration history of the region and the naming of Montana itself.

While the Montana State Seal isn’t known for distinctive color significance in its official version (which is often rendered in monochrome for official documents), colored representations typically feature natural tones—blue skies, green forests, brown earth, and golden sunlight—reflecting the state’s natural landscape.

Each element of the Montana State Seal was thoughtfully selected to create a comprehensive symbol that honors the state’s past while looking toward its future, capturing the essence of Montana’s identity as a place where natural resources, human industry, and stunning landscapes come together.

Montana State Seal: Original Design

The Montana State Seal traces its origins back to the territorial days before Montana achieved statehood. The original design was crafted in 1865 when Montana was still a territory. Francis McGee Thompson, a representative from Beaverhead County in the First Legislative Assembly of the Montana Territory, played the pivotal role in creating this emblem of authority.

Thompson’s design drew inspiration from Montana’s breathtaking natural landscape and the economic activities that defined the region at that time. The territorial seal featured the Rocky Mountains prominently in the background, with a waterfall cascading down—likely representing the Great Falls of the Missouri River. In the foreground, tools of mining and agriculture symbolized the territory’s economic foundation: a pick, shovel, and plow.

The original motto on the territorial seal read “Oro y Plata,” Spanish for “Gold and Silver,” reflecting the mineral wealth that had drawn many settlers to Montana during the gold rushes of the 1860s. This motto has remained unchanged through all subsequent redesigns, standing as a testament to Montana’s mining heritage.

When Montana transitioned from territory to state on November 8, 1889, the seal underwent modifications to reflect its new status. The Territorial Seal served as the foundation, but the First State Legislative Assembly authorized changes to create an official State Seal. The most significant change was the replacement of “Territory of Montana” with “The Great Seal of the State of Montana” on the outer ring.

The transition from territorial to state seal maintained the core symbolic elements while elevating the design to represent Montana’s new sovereign status within the Union. This continuity in design elements—the mountains, waterfall, and tools of industry—demonstrates how the seal has always aimed to capture Montana’s essence: its natural beauty and resource-rich land.

Charles Demar, a Helena draftsman, is credited with refining the design during this territorial-to-state transition period, though Thompson’s original concept remained the foundation of what would become the official Montana State Seal.

Montana State Seal: Through the Years

The Montana State Seal has undergone several transformations since its inception, reflecting the state’s evolving identity and priorities. This evolution tells a fascinating story of Montana’s journey from territory to statehood.

Territorial Origins (1865-1889)

Montana’s first territorial seal was created in 1865, shortly after Montana became a territory. This original design, created by Francis M. Thompson, featured a backdrop of mountains and waterfalls with a plow, a pick, and a shovel in the foreground—symbolizing Montana’s agricultural and mining industries. The territorial motto was “Oro y Plata” (Gold and Silver), highlighting the territory’s mineral wealth that attracted many early settlers.

Statehood and Official Adoption (1889-1893)

When Montana achieved statehood in 1889, the need for an official state seal became apparent. The First Legislative Assembly authorized the creation of a state seal in 1889, but it wasn’t until 1893 that the design was officially codified in state law. This version maintained many elements from the territorial seal but added refinements to better represent Montana’s status as a state.

The G.R. Metten Redesign (1893)

In 1893, the Montana Legislature officially adopted the seal designed by G.R. Metten. This version established most of the iconic elements we recognize today, including:

• The mountains and Great Falls of the Missouri River
• The plow, pick, and shovel representing agriculture and mining
• The state motto “Oro y Plata” on a ribbon
• The surrounding outer ring with “The Great Seal of the State of Montana”

Technical Modifications (1895-1980s)

Throughout the late 19th and 20th centuries, the seal underwent several technical modifications, though the core design remained largely unchanged:

• 1895: Minor artistic adjustments were made to improve the seal’s reproduction quality
• 1919: The Legislature authorized a standardized version to ensure consistency in official documents
• 1970s: Updates were made to accommodate modern printing techniques

Modern Standardization (1980s-Present)

In the 1980s, Montana’s government undertook efforts to standardize the seal’s appearance across all state communications and documents:

• 1985: The Secretary of State’s office issued guidelines for proper use and reproduction
• 1989: Centennial of statehood brought renewed attention to the seal’s historical significance
• 2003: Digital standardization of the seal for consistent use across all government platforms

Color Standardization

While the original legislation didn’t specify colors, over time, the state developed standard color specifications for official reproductions:

• Blue sky
• White/silver mountains
• Green valleys
• Brown for the pick and shovel
• Black for outlines and text

Throughout these changes, the fundamental symbolism of the seal has remained remarkably consistent—celebrating Montana’s natural beauty and resource-based economy. The mountains, waterfall, and tools continue to represent what Montanans value about their state: its majestic landscapes and proud industrial heritage.

Today’s Montana State Seal stands as a testament to the state’s history, carefully preserved through generations while adapting to modern needs and technologies. Each modification, however subtle, reflects a chapter in Montana’s ongoing story as the Treasure State.

Laws Governing the Montana State Seal

The Montana State Seal isn’t just a symbolic emblem—it’s protected by specific state laws that regulate its use. As one of Montana’s official state symbols, the seal’s usage is carefully controlled to maintain its dignity and prevent misrepresentation of state authority.

Under Montana Code Annotated § 1-1-501 through § 1-1-503, the Secretary of State is designated as the official custodian of the Great Seal of Montana. This means that the Secretary has primary authority over how and when the seal can be used in official capacities.

Unauthorized use of the Montana State Seal is considered a misdemeanor offense. Individuals who replicate, display, or use the seal without proper authorization can face legal penalties, including fines. These restrictions exist to prevent the seal from being used in ways that might suggest official state endorsement or approval of private entities or activities.

For those seeking to use the seal for legitimate purposes, a formal request must be submitted to the Secretary of State’s office. Typically, authorization is granted for educational purposes, historical documentation, governmental functions, or certain ceremonial uses. Commercial use of the seal is generally prohibited unless specifically authorized through a rigorous approval process.

State agencies are permitted to use the seal on official documents, correspondence, and websites, but even they must adhere to specific guidelines regarding size, color, and placement. The Governor’s office, state legislature, and judicial branches have broader authority to use the seal in their official capacities.

Reproduction regulations are particularly strict regarding alterations—the seal must be reproduced in its entirety without modification to its design elements. Digital reproductions must maintain the seal’s integrity and cannot be incorporated into logos or branding that might suggest state endorsement of private enterprises.

These protective measures ensure that the Montana State Seal remains a respected symbol of state authority rather than becoming diluted through casual or commercial use.

Montana State Seal in Popular Culture and Public Use

The Montana State Seal extends far beyond government documents and official buildings, permeating various aspects of daily life and culture throughout the Treasure State. Its iconic imagery has become a symbol of state pride that appears in numerous contexts.

In media, the seal frequently appears during news broadcasts covering state government affairs and is prominently featured on official state websites and publications. Local Montana news stations often display the seal when reporting on legislative sessions or gubernatorial announcements, reinforcing its status as a symbol of state authority.

The commercial sector has embraced the seal’s distinctive imagery for merchandise that appeals to both residents and tourists. Gift shops across Montana offer a wide array of products featuring the state seal, from t-shirts and coffee mugs to decorative plates and Christmas ornaments. These items allow Montanans to display state pride while providing visitors with authentic souvenirs that capture Montana’s heritage.

Tourism materials heavily incorporate the seal as a mark of official information. Visitor guides, highway welcome signs, and state park brochures often display the seal, lending an air of authenticity and authority to tourism information. The Montana Office of Tourism strategically uses the seal in marketing campaigns to emphasize the state’s rich history and governmental stability.

Artists throughout Montana have reinterpreted the seal in creative ways, incorporating its elements into paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works. Some create faithful reproductions while others offer modern, abstract interpretations that play with the seal’s symbolic elements. During Montana’s centennial and bicentennial celebrations, commissioned artworks featuring the seal became particularly prominent in public spaces.

Public perception of the seal generally reflects respect for its historical significance, though opinions vary on its aesthetic appeal. Many Montanans view it as a proud symbol of their state’s unique history and values, particularly appreciating the depiction of Montana’s natural resources and pioneering spirit. Some critics have noted its busy design compared to more minimalist modern state seals, while others have occasionally questioned whether certain elements remain relevant to contemporary Montana identity.

Despite these discussions, the seal remains a unifying symbol that appears at school events, community gatherings, and civic ceremonies throughout the state. Its presence in everyday Montana life ensures that the values it represents—industry, natural beauty, and progress—remain ingrained in the state’s cultural consciousness.

Montana State Seal: Comparison with Other State Seals

Montana’s state seal stands as a distinctive emblem among America’s state insignias, yet it shares certain thematic elements with neighboring states while maintaining its unique identity. When examining the seal alongside those of Idaho, Wyoming, North Dakota, and South Dakota, interesting patterns emerge.

The most striking similarity between Montana’s seal and those of neighboring states is the emphasis on natural landscapes. Like Montana, Wyoming features mountains prominently in its seal, though Wyoming’s design includes a central shield with the words “Equal Rights” rather than Montana’s panoramic scene. Idaho’s seal likewise showcases mountains but places greater emphasis on agriculture, featuring a female figure representing justice alongside a miner.

North Dakota’s seal differs considerably, focusing on a tree surrounded by agricultural motifs rather than mountains, while South Dakota’s seal centers on the state motto “Under God the People Rule” with agricultural and industrial symbols. Unlike these neighbors, Montana’s seal uniquely captures the state’s dramatic topography with the specific mountains, waterfalls, and Missouri River depicted in vivid detail.

What truly sets Montana’s seal apart is its comprehensive storytelling. While many state seals incorporate symbols of industry or agriculture, Montana’s seal weaves these elements into a cohesive landscape that captures the state’s essence. The pick, shovel, and plow appear not as isolated symbols but as integrated parts of Montana’s identity, positioned against the backdrop of the Great Falls of the Missouri.

Common themes across American state seals include agricultural implements, industrial tools, and natural features, all of which Montana incorporates. However, Montana’s seal stands out for its artistic rendering of these elements in a realistic scene rather than as symbolic representations. Many state seals feature abstract or heraldic designs, while Montana opted for a pictorial approach that visually narrates the state’s geography and economic foundations.

The seal’s motto “Oro y Plata” (Gold and Silver) also distinguishes Montana, as it’s one of only two states with a non-English motto (the other being Washington’s “Al-ki,” meaning “by and by” in Chinook jargon). This Spanish phrase directly connects to Montana’s mining heritage, whereas neighboring states typically chose Latin or English mottos reflecting broader ideals rather than specific industries.

Montana’s seal represents both a continuation of American seal traditions and a distinctive departure from them, creating an emblem that captures the unique character of the Treasure State while acknowledging the shared values and industries of the American West.

Montana State Seal: Controversies and Proposed Changes

Montana’s state seal, like many official state symbols, has not been immune to controversy and calls for change throughout its history. While the seal has remained largely consistent since 1893, there have been notable debates about its design elements, proposed modernizations, and cultural sensitivity considerations.

The depiction of Montana’s landscape and natural resources has sparked discussions about what truly represents the state’s identity. Some critics argue that the current seal overemphasizes mining and agriculture while neglecting other important aspects of Montana’s economy and culture. The pick, shovel, and plow represent industries that, while historically significant, no longer dominate Montana’s economic landscape as they once did.

In the 1970s, there was a push to modernize the seal to better reflect contemporary Montana. Proposals included updating the visual style and incorporating elements representing tourism, conservation, and the state’s growing technology sector. However, these efforts gained little traction in the legislature, with traditionalists arguing that changing the seal would diminish Montana’s connection to its pioneer heritage.

Cultural sensitivity concerns have also emerged in recent decades. Some Native American groups have questioned why indigenous peoples, who have inhabited Montana for thousands of years before European settlement, are not represented on the seal. This absence is particularly notable given that Montana has seven federally recognized tribal nations and the state name itself derives from a Spanish word for “mountainous” based on Native American languages.

Public opinion on potential changes to the seal remains divided. A 2015 informal survey conducted by a Montana newspaper found that approximately 60% of respondents preferred keeping the traditional seal, while 40% supported some form of modernization. Many Montanans view the seal as a historical artifact that should be preserved, while others believe it should evolve to reflect the changing nature of the state.

Some proposed compromises have included maintaining the basic design while subtly incorporating elements that acknowledge Native American heritage, environmental conservation, or modern industries. Others have suggested creating an alternative, more contemporary seal for certain uses while preserving the historical seal for official documents and the state capitol.

Legislative attempts to modify the seal have consistently faced strong opposition. In 2003, a bill that would have established a commission to review and potentially update the seal died in committee. Similar efforts in 2011 and 2019 met the same fate, highlighting the emotional and political challenges involved in changing state symbols.

Despite these controversies, the Montana state seal continues to serve its official function while the debate about its future occasionally resurfaces in political and cultural discussions across the Treasure State.

Where to See the Montana State Seal in Person

The Great Seal of Montana isn’t just a symbol on paper—it’s prominently displayed throughout the state as a reminder of Montana’s heritage and values. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a Montana resident, or a curious visitor, there are several locations where you can view this important state emblem in person.

The most impressive display of the Montana State Seal can be found at the Montana State Capitol building in Helena. As you enter the magnificent Capitol, look up at the rotunda where a beautifully crafted version of the seal commands attention. The seal is also prominently featured in the House and Senate chambers, serving as a constant reminder to legislators of Montana’s history and principles. The Capitol offers free guided tours where knowledgeable guides share fascinating details about the seal’s symbolism and history.

The Montana Historical Society Museum, also located in Helena just across from the Capitol, houses historical artifacts related to the seal, including early versions and documents bearing official impressions. Their exhibits often include information about the seal’s creation and evolution, providing context for understanding this important state symbol.

County courthouses throughout Montana typically display the state seal in courtrooms and public areas. These local government buildings offer accessible viewing opportunities for residents across the state, from Missoula County Courthouse in the west to the Yellowstone County Courthouse in Billings.

Public universities and libraries across Montana also feature the seal in their administrative buildings. Montana State University in Bozeman and the University of Montana in Missoula both display versions of the seal, often accompanied by educational information about its significance.

For those unable to visit these locations in person, several virtual options exist. The Montana Secretary of State’s website offers high-resolution images of the seal along with historical information. Additionally, virtual tours of the State Capitol available online provide close-up views of the seal in its most prominent setting.

The Montana Historical Society has also developed digital archives that include photographs and documents related to the seal’s history, accessible to anyone with internet access. These resources allow people from anywhere in the world to appreciate Montana’s official emblem and learn about its rich symbolism.

Whether viewed in the grandeur of the Capitol rotunda or explored through digital resources, the Montana State Seal continues to serve as a visible connection to the state’s history and values.

Montana State Seal Final Thoughts

The Montana State Seal stands as more than just an official emblem—it represents the heart and soul of Montana’s identity as a state. Since its adoption in 1865, when Montana was still a territory, the seal has served as a visual narrative of the state’s natural splendor, economic foundations, and pioneering spirit.

The enduring legacy of Montana’s seal lies in its remarkable consistency. While many states have dramatically altered their seals over time, Montana’s has maintained its core elements for over 150 years. This continuity speaks to the timeless nature of Montana’s values and the enduring relevance of its founding principles. The mountains, forests, waterfalls, and tools of industry depicted on the seal remain as significant to Montana’s identity today as they were when first designed.

The symbolism embedded within the seal continues to resonate with Montanans. The plow, pick, and shovel represent the agricultural and mineral wealth that has sustained the state’s economy for generations. The Great Falls of the Missouri River symbolizes the natural power and beauty that defines Montana’s landscape. The mountains showcase the majestic terrain that has shaped the character of the state and its people. Perhaps most poignantly, the state motto “Oro y Plata” (Gold and Silver) acknowledges the mineral resources that first drew many settlers to the region while reminding citizens of their rich heritage.

Looking to the future, the Montana State Seal will likely continue its role as a unifying symbol. In an era of increasing digitization, the seal maintains its relevance, appearing not just on government buildings and documents but also in digital communications and online platforms. While some states have debated updating their seals to reflect contemporary values or to remove controversial elements, Montana’s seal has largely avoided such controversies, suggesting its design may remain stable for generations to come.

As Montana continues to evolve—balancing traditional industries with new economic opportunities, preserving natural resources while developing infrastructure, honoring its history while embracing diversity—the state seal will remain a constant reminder of the foundation upon which the Treasure State was built. It serves as both an anchor to Montana’s past and a compass for its future, embodying the resilience, natural beauty, and resourcefulness that define Montana and its people.

Montana State Seal FAQs

Sources

• https://mhs.mt.gov/education/Textbook/Chapter1/MontanaFlagLesson.pdf?ver=2020-06-30-144230-077
• https://leg.mt.gov/bills/mca/title_0010/chapter_0010/part_0050/section_0010/0010-0010-0050-0010.html
• https://fwp.mt.gov/binaries/content/assets/fwp/montana-outdoors/2011/statesymbols.pdf
• https://sosmt.gov/state-seal/
• https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:State_seal_of_Montana