The national coat of arms of Grenada is a symbol of the country’s sovereignty and independence. It features a shield divided into four sections, each representing a different aspect of Grenada’s history and culture. The shield is supported by a lion and a unicorn, which are symbols of the British monarchy, and is topped by a golden crown.
The first section of the shield features a golden lion holding a cacao pod, which represents Grenada’s agricultural heritage. Cacao is one of the country’s main exports, and Grenada is known for producing some of the world’s finest chocolate. The second section of the shield features a nutmeg, which is another important crop in Grenada. The nutmeg is surrounded by a blue and white wavy line, which represents the sea that surrounds the island.
The third section of the shield features a stylized depiction of the Santa Maria, one of the ships that Christopher Columbus used on his voyage to the New World. Grenada was one of the first Caribbean islands that Columbus visited, and the Santa Maria is a symbol of the island’s rich history. The fourth section of the shield features a yellow trumpet flower, which is the national flower of Grenada. The flower is surrounded by a red and white wavy line, which represents the island’s volcanic soil.
The colors used in the coat of arms are significant as well. The blue and white wavy lines represent the sea, while the red and white wavy lines represent the island’s volcanic soil. The yellow trumpet flower represents the sun, while the green background of the shield represents the island’s lush vegetation.
The coat of arms was designed by a local artist named Anthony C. George in 1974, shortly after Grenada gained independence from Britain. The design was chosen from a competition that was held to create a new national symbol for the country. The coat of arms was officially adopted on February 7, 1974, the same day that Grenada became an independent nation.
The lion and unicorn that support the shield are symbols of the British monarchy, which ruled Grenada for over 200 years. The lion represents England, while the unicorn represents Scotland. The two animals are often depicted together in British heraldry, and they are a reminder of Grenada’s colonial past.
The golden crown that tops the coat of arms is a symbol of Grenada’s status as a sovereign nation. The crown is made up of five points, which represent the five parishes of Grenada. The points are also meant to symbolize the country’s motto, “Ever Conscious of God We Aspire, and Advance as One People.”
Overall, the national coat of arms of Grenada is a powerful symbol of the country’s history, culture, and independence. It represents Grenada’s agricultural heritage, its connection to the sea, its rich history, and its natural beauty. The coat of arms is a reminder of the country’s past, but it also serves as a symbol of hope for the future.