Information about effigy: Coat of Arms of Saint Kitts and Nevis

The Coat of Arms of Saint Kitts and Nevis was adopted in 1983. It is almost identical with the Coat of Arms adopted in 1967 by the colony of Saint Christopher-Nevis-Anguilla - they only differ in some of the colours, and the motto.

The centre of the Coat of Arms is dominated by a shield at the base of which there is a lighter (sailing boat). A red chevron is highlighted by two poinciana flowers.

At the top of the shield is a Carib's head, flanked by a fleur-de-lis and a rose. The Caribs were the early inhabitants of the islands, and the fleur-de-lis and rose signify the islands' French and British influences. A helmet topped with the battlements of a tower appears with a flaming torch upheld by three hands: one African, one European and one Indian. The torch signifies the struggle and quest for freedom by a people of diverse ethnic origins, but united in purpose.

The shield is supported on either side by pelicans (the country's national bird), with wings extended, displaying a sugar cane plant and the coconut palm tree, which are extensively cultivated throughout Saint Kitts and Nevis. On a ribbon below, the motto COUNTRY ABOVE SELF.

Saint Kitts and Nevis uses the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), which is the common currency of six independent states and two British Overseas Territories. As such, the currency does not display national symbols - usually, the obverse has the effigy of the British monarch, who is the shared Head of State of seven of the member states. However, individual states occasionally issue commemorative or bullion coins which feature their individual symbols. The Coat of Arms of Saint Kitts and Nevis was first shown on the reverse (not the obverse) of bullion coins issued as part of the Eastern Caribbean 8 series.

Coat of Arms of Saint Kitts and Nevis in colour

Saint Kitts and Nevis / Silver Ounce 2024 Coat of Arms

The Coat of Arms of Saint Kitts and Nevis featured on the reverse (not obverse) of some bullion coins of the EC8 series in 2024, including in a full-colour version.