Click on a country to learn more
Atlas
Explore the symbols of North America's three nations — from the 50 US state seals to Canada's provincial coats of arms and Mexico's state emblems. A continent shaped by indigenous heritage, European colonization, and modern republican identity.
Every US state maintains a state seal and a state flag used by the governor's office and state government. From the bald eagle of New York to the bear flag of California, each design reflects the state's history, geography, and motto. The 50 states form one of the most extensive collections of sub-national symbols in the world.
Canada is the only North American country with a fully operational heraldic authority. The Canadian Heraldic Authority, established in 1988, grants coats of arms to provinces, territories, cities, and citizens. The 13 provincial and territorial coats of arms reflect British, French, and Indigenous heritage — from Ontario's red cross of Saint George to Nunavut's iglu and inuksuk.
Mexico's 32 states each maintain official coats of arms or seals that often incorporate pre-Columbian motifs alongside colonial and republican symbolism — a uniquely Mesoamerican take on the heraldic tradition. From Mexico City's eagle and serpent to Yucatán's Mayan elements, each emblem tells a layered story.