Flag of New Mexico - Definition and Overview

The flag of New Mexico consists of a red sun symbol of the Zia on a field of yellow. The colors honor Queen Isabella of Spain and the Spanish Conquistadors who explored in her name.

The Daughters of the American Revolution pushed New Mexico to design a contemporary and unique flag in 1920. A contest to design the new state flag was won by Dr. Harry Mera of Santa Fe, New Mexico. His winning design is the flag that the state uses today.

Dr Mera was an archaeologist who was familiar with the Zia sun symbol found at Zia Pueblo on a 19th century pot. The symbol has sacred meaning to the Zia. Four is a sacred number which symbolizes several things including the stages of life, and the responsibilities one must meet therein. The circle binds the four elements of four together.

In recent years, Zia Pueblo has made repeated attempts to remove the sacred symbol from the state's flag. It is unclear what the ultimate result of this effort will be. For now, at least, the Zia will remain on the flag.