View source for Canadian Coat of Arms

The '''Canadian Coat of Arms''', also known as the '''Royal Coat of Arms of Canada''', is the official heraldic symbol of the Canadian government. It reflects Canada’s historical ties to the British and French monarchies, its sovereignty, and its national values.

== Description ==

The Coat of Arms features:
* A '''shield''' with the symbols of England (3 lions), Scotland (lion rampant), Ireland (harp), and France (fleur-de-lis), topped by a red maple leaf.
* Two supporters:
  * A '''lion''' holding a Union Jack flag (symbol of England)
  * A '''unicorn''' holding a flag with the fleur-de-lis (symbol of France)
* A '''crowned crest''' above the shield bearing a lion holding a maple leaf.
* A '''motto ribbon''': ''“A Mari Usque Ad Mare”'' — *From Sea to Sea*
* The '''Order of Canada motto''' below: ''“Desiderantes Meliorem Patriam”'' — '''They desire a better country'''

== History ==

* Created in '''1921''' and proclaimed by King George V as the official Arms of the Dominion of Canada.
* Based on the British Royal Arms but modified to reflect Canada’s unique identity and dual heritage.
* Updated in '''1994''' to include the motto of the Order of Canada.

== Symbolism ==

* '''British and French influences''': Reflect Canada’s colonial roots and linguistic heritage.
* '''Red Maple Leaf''': Represents unity and Canadian identity.
* '''Lion and Unicorn''': Traditional symbols of royal power, adapted for Canadian sovereignty.
* '''Motto “From Sea to Sea”''': Drawn from Psalm 72:8, expressing national unity and geographical breadth.

== Usage ==

The Coat of Arms appears on:
* Canadian '''passports'''
* Government documents and treaties
* **'''Citizenship certificates'''**
* '''Courtroom settings''' and federal buildings
* Currency (historically), official seals, and military insignia

== Legal Protection ==

The Coat of Arms is protected by law and cannot be used without permission. Unauthorized commercial use is prohibited by the '''Trade-marks Act''' and controlled by '''Canadian Heritage'''.

== Official Versions ==

* English, French, and bilingual versions exist.
* Digital and print-ready versions are maintained by the '''Department of Canadian Heritage'''.

== Related Pages ==
* [[Canadian Flag]]
* [[Maple Leaf]]
* [[National Symbols of Canada]]
* [[O Canada]]
* [[Government of Canada]]

== External Links ==
* [https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/royal-symbols-titles/coat-arms.html Government of Canada – Canadian Coat of Arms]
* [https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/t-13/ Trade-marks Act – Justice Laws Website]

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''The Canadian Coat of Arms is more than a decorative seal — it is a historic symbol of sovereignty, bilingualism, unity, and Canada’s constitutional monarchy.''

[[Category:National Symbols of Canada]]
[[Category:Canadian Culture]]
[[Category:Government of Canada]]
[[Category:Canadian History]]