The state flag of Rhode Island is the official flag of the U.S. state of Rhode Island, consisting of a white background and a gold anchor in the center surrounded by thirteen gold stars, for the original Thirteen Colonies and Rhode Island's status as the 13th state to ratify the Constitution. A blue ribbon below the anchor bears the state's motto in gold: "HOPE". The flag is frequently depicted with golden fringe around the edges of the flag, although the fringe is never actually on the flag unless it is used in federal-level displays, much like the national flag.