Coat of arms of Canada

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Armiger
Battle cry
Alternative name(s)
Earliest mention
Adopted	1921
Relinquished
Families
Crest	Upon a helm with a wreath Argent and Gules a lion passant guardant Or imperially crowned proper and holding in the dexter paw a maple leaf Gules

The Coat of arms of Canada is the official symbol of the Canadian state, representing the sovereignty and unity of the nation. It was proclaimed by King George V on November 21, 1921, and has undergone several modifications since its inception. The coat of arms is a heraldic symbol that incorporates elements representing the historical and cultural heritage of Canada.

Design and Symbolism

The coat of arms of Canada is a complex heraldic design that incorporates symbols from the United Kingdom and France, reflecting Canada's colonial history and its status as a member of the Commonwealth.

Shield

The shield is divided into four quarters, each representing a different part of Canada's heritage:

• The first quarter features three gold lions on a red field, representing England.
• The second quarter displays a red lion rampant on a gold field, surrounded by a double border of fleurs-de-lis, representing Scotland.
• The third quarter shows a gold harp on a blue field, symbolizing Ireland.
• The fourth quarter contains three gold fleurs-de-lis on a blue field, representing France.

The central escutcheon is a white field with a red maple leaf, symbolizing Canada itself.

Crest

The crest consists of a crowned gold lion standing on a wreath of red and white, holding a red maple leaf. This symbolizes Canada's sovereignty and its ties to the British monarchy.

Supporters

The supporters are a gold lion on the left and a silver unicorn on the right. The lion holds a lance with the Union Flag, while the unicorn holds a lance with a banner of three fleurs-de-lis, representing the historical influence of both the United Kingdom and France.

Motto

The motto "A Mari Usque Ad Mare" translates to "From Sea to Sea," reflecting the vast geographical expanse of Canada from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean.

Compartment

The compartment at the base of the coat of arms is a wreath of roses, thistles, shamrocks, and lilies, representing the floral emblems of England, Scotland, Ireland, and France, respectively.

History

The coat of arms was first granted by royal proclamation in 1921, following a request by the Canadian government to have a distinct symbol that represented the country's unique identity. The design was influenced by the coats of arms of the United Kingdom and France, acknowledging the historical ties and cultural influences of these nations on Canada.

In 1957, the coat of arms was modified to change the color of the maple leaves from green to red, aligning with the national colors of Canada. Further modifications were made in 1994 to include the ribbon of the Order of Canada in the design.

Legal Status and Usage

The coat of arms is used by the federal government of Canada and appears on official documents, government buildings, and currency. It is protected by law, and unauthorized use is prohibited.

Also see

• Flag of Canada
• National symbols of Canada
• Monarchy of Canada
• Order of Canada