"Sic semper tyrannis" COPPER round

When I was in High School, my Guidance Counselor said that taking classes in Latin language was advised for anyone who hoped to attend college one day. She said that many words in English have their roots in Latin (which is also true for Spanish, Portuguese, French, and Romanian — all of which are called "Romance" languages, because of their roots in the Roman/Latin language) and that is would increase my vocabulary in understanding English words. Since college was, indeed, my plan, I took Latin 𝐈 and Latin 𝐈𝐈 in two consecutive years. My Guidance Counselor was correct, as I saw evidence of a vocabulary increase!

So, when I saw this bullion, first in silver and then in copper, I knew what "Sic semper tyrannis" meant. However, for purposes of this article and citing proper sources, I looked it up and discovered much more behind the phrase than I knew from a mere translation! I hope this serves as motivation to those in similar blogging situations!

The phrase "Sic semper tyrannis" means "Thus always to tyrants" and "suggests that bad outcomes will or should befall tyrants." ^[1] It is the motto of the US state of Virginia, and was also the motto of two sea-going vessels that were named for the state. The iconography shown on the obverse (front) of this copper round mimics the seal of the state of Virginia:

The Seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia shows Virtue, spear in hand, with her foot on the prostrate form of Tyranny, whose crown lies nearby. ^[1]

The reverse features the logo/seal of Silver Shield, one of the manufacturers of fine silver and copper rounds for investment and collection purposes. Their consistent quality and attention to detail is always excellent and makes Silver Shield highly recommended by aficionados of precious metals.