Coat of arms of Saskatchewan

Coat of arms of Saskatchewan

Coat of Arms of Saskatchewan is the heraldic symbol representing the Canadian province of Saskatchewan. The arms were granted by royal warrant of King George V on August 25, 1906, and augmented with a crest, supporters, and a motto by Queen Elizabeth II on September 16, 1986. The coat of arms is a significant element of the province's identity, reflecting its history, culture, and natural resources.

Description

The coat of arms consists of several components, each with its own symbolic meaning:

• Shield: The upper half of the shield features three gold sheaves of wheat on a green background, symbolizing Saskatchewan's agricultural wealth and its status as the breadbasket of Canada. The lower half displays a red lion on a gold background, a common heraldic symbol, representing the province's ties to England.

• Crest: Above the shield is a helmet mantled in red and white, topped with a beaver, Canada's national animal, holding a Western red lily, the provincial flower of Saskatchewan. This combination represents the unity of the nation and the unique characteristics of the province.

• Supporters: On either side of the shield stand a royal lion and a white-tailed deer, both bearing a Western red lily. The lion symbolizes the province's connection to the British Crown, while the deer represents the province's wildlife.

• Compartment: The supporters stand on a mound of prairie grass, highlighting Saskatchewan's prairie landscape.

• Motto: Below the compartment is the provincial motto, Multis e gentibus vires, which translates from Latin as "From many peoples, strength". This reflects the diverse origins of Saskatchewan's population and the strength derived from this diversity.

History

The original coat of arms was granted in 1906, shortly after Saskatchewan became a province of Canada in 1905. The initial grant included only the shield. The full achievement of the coat of arms, including the crest, supporters, and motto, was granted in 1986, marking the province's 80th anniversary.

Symbolism

The coat of arms embodies the spirit, history, and natural beauty of Saskatchewan. The sheaves of wheat signify the province's agricultural industry and its importance to both the provincial and national economies. The lion represents Saskatchewan's historical ties to Britain, while the beaver and Western red lily emphasize the province's Canadian identity and natural heritage. The supporters reflect the province's commitment to preserving its wildlife and the unity between its people and the Crown. The motto underscores the province's multiculturalism and the strength it gains from its diverse population.

Usage

The coat of arms is used officially by the government of Saskatchewan on documents, buildings, and other items of provincial significance. It serves as a symbol of authority and pride for the province and its people.

See also

• Heraldry
• Symbols of Saskatchewan
• Flag of Saskatchewan