Coat of Arms

Technical Description

1. Shield (Escutcheon)
   • The central element is a white shield with a red cross.
   • Five golden pineapples are arranged on the cross, representing the island’s agricultural wealth, specifically one of its most historically significant crops.
2. Supporters
   • Two Taino figures stand on either side of the shield.
   • The female figure on the left carries a woven basket of pineapples, signifying agriculture and sustenance.
   • The male figure on the right holds a bow and arrow, representing the indigenous heritage and defense of the land.
   • The Tainos were the original inhabitants of Jamaica before European colonization.
3. Crest
   • Above the shield is a gold and blue torse (twisted ribbon of fabric), a traditional heraldic feature.
   • Resting on the torse is a royal helmet, indicative of Jamaica’s colonial past under the British monarchy.
   • Atop the helmet sits a Crocodile, which represents the native Jamaican crocodile (Crocodylus acutus), a unique symbol of the island’s wildlife.
4. Motto
   • A pink scroll below the shield bears the words “OUT OF MANY, ONE PEOPLE” in black capital letters.
   • This motto reflects Jamaica’s diverse ethnic heritage, acknowledging the blending of African, European, Asian, and indigenous influences that make up the nation’s identity.

History of the Coat of Arms

• The original Coat of Arms of Jamaica was granted in 1661 under British rule, making it one of the oldest in the Caribbean.
• It was designed by William Sancroft, then Archbishop of Canterbury.
• The design has undergone several modifications over time:
  • 1875: A revised version was issued by Queen Victoria.
  • 1957: Further adjustments were made in preparation for Jamaica’s movement towards independence.
  • 1962: Upon gaining independence from Britain, Jamaica retained the Coat of Arms but introduced modifications, particularly to the motto, which was changed from “Indus Uterque Serviet Uni” (Latin for “Both Indies will serve one”) to “Out of Many, One People” to reflect national unity.

Symbolism and Cultural Significance

• The Coat of Arms represents Jamaica’s history, indigenous heritage, colonial past, and unity as a people.
• The Taino figures honor the island’s first inhabitants.
• The pineapples symbolize the island’s rich agriculture.
• The crocodile is a reminder of Jamaica’s unique biodiversity.
• The motto is a powerful declaration of Jamaica’s multicultural identity.