Sky-blue field with gold sunburst encircling the state seal; state name above and nickname below.
Ratio: 2:3
A sky-blue field with the state seal ringed by the words “South Dakota, The Mount Rushmore State.” The seal shows farming, industry, hills and river, a panorama of the state’s economy. The encircling sun’s rays lend brightness to the emblem.
Flag Symbolism & Meaning
sunburst
Represents sunshine and openness of the plains.
state seal
Shows farming, industry, and natural resources.
lettering
‘South Dakota’ and ‘The Mount Rushmore State’ identify the state.
Historical Timeline
Admitted as a state (same day as North Dakota).
Current layout with seal adopted.
Fascinating Facts
Shares statehood date with North Dakota (order intentionally obscured).
Mount Rushmore is the state’s most famous landmark.
For Students & Teachers
Key Learning Points (4-8)
Identify the elements of the state seal.
Explain why the sunburst symbolizes the plains.
State Information
- Population
- 886,667
- Area
- 77,116
- Founded
- 1889-11-02
- Region
- Midwest