Coat of arms of Tasmania

Coat of arms of Tasmania

Coat of arms of Tasmania is the official symbol of the state of Tasmania, an island state of Australia. Granted by King George V on 25 November 1917, the coat of arms has a rich history and symbolism that reflects Tasmania's unique heritage, environment, and economy.

Description

The coat of arms consists of a shield, supporters, a crest, and a motto. The shield features a red lion passant (walking with the right forepaw raised) in the top half, which is a common heraldic symbol representing courage. The bottom half of the shield displays a green field with a silver fleece hanging from a red ring, symbolizing Tasmania's wool industry, which has been a significant part of the state's economy.

Supporting the shield are two Tasmanian tigers (Thylacines), now extinct, which stand on a compartment of grass with apple blossoms. The choice of the Tasmanian tiger pays homage to the unique wildlife of the island, while the apple blossoms represent Tasmania's fruitful apple orchards, once known as the "Apple Isle."

Atop the shield is a crest featuring a lion passant guardant (walking with the right forepaw raised and looking towards the observer) holding a pickaxe. This element symbolizes the mining industry, another critical sector of Tasmania's economy.

The motto beneath the shield reads "Ubertas et Fidelitas," which is Latin for "Fertility and Faithfulness," reflecting the state's agricultural richness and loyalty to the British Crown.

Symbolism

Each component of the coat of arms holds significant meaning: - The red lion on the shield is a traditional symbol of courage and strength. - The silver fleece represents Tasmania's wool industry, a nod to the state's agricultural heritage. - The Tasmanian tigers as supporters are a tribute to Tasmania's unique fauna, despite the species' extinction. - The apple blossoms signify the importance of fruit cultivation, particularly apples, in Tasmania's economy. - The pickaxe in the crest highlights the mining industry's role in Tasmania's development. - The motto "Ubertas et Fidelitas" underscores the state's agricultural bounty and its historical loyalty.

History

The coat of arms was officially granted to Tasmania by King George V in 1917, making it one of the earliest Australian states to receive its heraldic arms. The design reflects both the natural heritage of the island and its economic activities at the time. Over the years, the coat of arms has been used in various official capacities, including government documents, public buildings, and state events, serving as a proud emblem of Tasmanian identity.

Usage

The coat of arms is used by the Tasmanian government to authenticate documents, on state property, and in other official capacities. It symbolizes the authority and sovereignty of Tasmania within the federation of Australia. While it is a formal symbol not typically used in commercial or personal contexts, it plays a crucial role in state ceremonies and representations.

See also

• Flag of Tasmania
• Symbols of Australia
• Heraldry