The new Coat of Arms of the Bahamas as approved by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on 7 December 1971 for use by the Bahamian People and the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.
The escutcheon (shield) is supported by the national animals, a marlin and flamingo. The flamingo is located upon land, and the marlin upon sea, indicating the geography of the islands. The crest on top of the helm (helmet) is a conch shell, which represents the varied marine life of the island chain. Below the helm is the escutcheon itself, whose main charge is a ship, reputed to represent the Santa MarĂa of Christopher Columbus. It is sailing beneath a sun in the chief. The national motto "FORWARD, UPWARD, ONWARD TOGETHER" is found in a ribbon at the bottom.
Around above, COMMONWEALTH OF THE BAHAMAS.
Below the coat of arms, the date 1979. |