Coat of arms of the University of Pennsylvania

Coat of arms of the University of Pennsylvania
Versions
Seal of the Corporation of the University of Pennsylvania
Adopted	1933; 92 years ago (1933)
Shield	In the chief, gules, two open books and a dolphin, argent; in the ground, argent, a chevron, azure, with three plates, argent.
Motto	"Quid leges sine moribus vanae proficiunt"

The coat of arms of the University of Pennsylvania is the assumed heraldic achievement of the University of Pennsylvania. The achievement in its current iteration was approved in 1932 and adopted in 1933.[1] The blazon of the achievement is

Arms: In the chief, gules, two open books and a dolphin, argent; in the ground, argent, a chevron, azure, with three plates, argent. Motto: Quid leges sine moribus vanae proficiunt.

Symbolism

The arms memorialize both Benjamin Franklin and the Penn family, who were both instrumental in the foundation of the university. They include the three plates of the Penn family arms and the dolphin of the Franklin shield.[2]

References

1. "U.S. Heraldic Registry – Registrations/Pennsylvania, University of?". usheraldicregistry.com. Retrieved 2023-05-03.
2. "Seals and Arms of the University of Pennsylvania: Usage". University Archives and Records Center. Retrieved 2023-05-03.