What Does “Coinage Before Honor” Mean

A wicked appearance of moral fortitude.

Notwithstanding any first impressions of the phrase “coinage before honor,” know that this ingenious slogan and its menacing artwork are all about doing what’s right instead of wrong. In the broader context of the design, “coinage” sounds similar to “carnage,” which alludes to destructive behaviors and events, hence the piercing skull. Likewise, we know that the definition of “coinage” actually means money. Money is often a vice that compels destructive behaviors. The adjacency of the words “before honor” alludes to one’s moral conscience. More specifically, the latter pays homage to those who have the strength to consistently act upon that honor. Hence, the strongest shape in construction is used, the triangle that encompasses a raging bull’s head. The bull’s head is symbolic of one’s own aggressive persistency to maintain self-honor. The number 21 is symbolic of the 21st century and the burgeoning optimism within it. The slogan, in all of its grandeur, questions whether or not one will do anything for money, take the moral high ground, and do what’s right. Particularly when immoral behavior has been encouraged by the wickedness of money.