Why a Bow and Arrow Symbol Appears in Certain US Currency Designs

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What the Bow and Arrow Represent

The bow and arrow traditionally symbolize:

  • Defense, not aggression
  • Readiness and vigilance
  • Strength paired with restraint

Unlike swords or firearms, a bow suggests protection rather than conquest. This aligned with how the early United States wanted to be seen: capable of defending itself, but not seeking unnecessary conflict.

Connection to Native American Influence

Native American imagery played a significant role in early American symbolism. The bow and arrow was widely recognized as a tool associated with Indigenous peoples, and its inclusion reflected:

  • The land’s original inhabitants
  • A connection to the American continentContinue reading…

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