The War of 1812 Pattern American Cockade. Then, about the time of the War of 1812, the eagle was notably redesigned. The new eagle included two symbols that were significant to American politics: arrows and an olive branch. In the early 1800s, America was still establishing her independent existence. Enemies - and dubious friends - surrounded her on all sides. The United States was arguing with Britain about trade and territory rights in the North and West. We were squabbling over trade with France, even as we doubled our land size with the Louisiana Purchase from the French. Spanish influence in the nearby Latin American countries unsettled our nation as well. And of course, there were always rumblings about skirmishes with the Indians on the frontiers. The eagle now held arrows in its right claw and an olive branch in its left. Ready for war or for peace, was the message. This cockade measures 3 inches with a fine Silver Eagle to its center that is applied with two prongs to the reverse. The cockade itself is made of leather and is in excellent condition.