What is Pennsylvania's state nickname?

The state nickname of the commonwealth of Pennsylvania is "The Keystone State." It is derived from Pennsylvania's central position among the original 13 colonies and its importance to the economical, political and social development of the United States: Pennsylvania was the second state admitted to the Union.

The state motto is "Virtue, Liberty and Independence." The state coat of arms features a shield flanked by a bald eagle, bordered by horses and decorated with a clay-red plough, a ship and bundles of wheat to indicate the state's strength in commerce. A cornstalk and olive branch cross limbs below to signify peace and prosperity.