<style type="text/css"> .no-show { display: none; } .disable-fade-in{ opacity: 1 !important; transform: none !important; visibility: visible !important; } </style>
Skip to main content
Headquarters

CIA Seal

About the CIA Seal

This CIA seal is a hallmark of the Original Headquarters Building lobby. The large granite seal – which measures 16 feet in diameter – has been the symbol of the CIA since Feb. 17, 1950. This emblem is composed of the eagle, the shield and the 16-point compass star. The eagle is our national bird and stands for strength and alertness. The 16-point compass star represents the convergence of intelligence data from around the world at a central point. The shield is the standard symbol of defense; US policymakers make decisions that defend our country through the intelligence we gather. This seal is one of the most identifiable symbols of the CIA and has appeared in many entertainment and documentary motion pictures.

A large black, white, and gray granite version of the CIA seal.

Video

Seal Renovation

Warning: This video below may contain flickering or flashing scenes.