Image: WatchdogOfTheTreasury1800Seal

Description: An old seal of the United States Department of the Treasury, dating from about 1800. The origin of the seal is a matter of speculation. Just how extensively the seal was used is unknown, but it has long since disappeared from Treasury documents. The original plate of the seal is on deposit at the Government Printing Office. Within a wreath around the seal's edges is a symbolic strongbox, and lying beside the strongbox is a capable looking watchdog with his left front paw securely clasping a large key. The seal bears the lettering "U.S. Treasury." The key and scales are also incorporated in the official Treasury seal. The U.S. Mint did in fact have a real watchdog named Nero, originally purchased in 1793 for $3. According to department legend, Nero is the canine depicted. For more information, see here and here.
Title: WatchdogOfTheTreasury1800Seal
Credit: U.S. Treasury web page (direct image URL [1])
Author: U.S. Department of the Treasury
Permission: This image is a work of the United States Department of the Treasury, taken or made as part of an employee's official duties. As a work of the U.S. federal government, the image is in the public domain in the United States.
Usage Terms: Public domain
License: Public domain
Attribution Required?: No