The Latin phrase "Nil Sine Numine” was adopted as part of the Territorial Seal. At recurring intervals the interpretation of this Latin phrase, commonly translated as "Nothing without Providence,” has been disputed. Some say it means "Nothing without God.” In the early mining days of the State, the unregenerate said it meant "nothing without a new mine.” In a strict sense, one cannot possibly get "God" from "numine,” “God” being a purely Anglo-Saxon word. The word "numine" means any divinity, god or goddess. The best evidence of intent of Colorado's official designers and framers of the resolution for adoption of the seal is contained in the committee report wherein clear distinction was made between "numine" and "Deo" and it specifically states that the committee's interpretative translation was "Nothing without the Deity.”
