The Coat of Arms

A Mari usque ad Mare

The Coat of Arms of Canada, called the Arms of Canada or the Royal Arms of Canada, were adopted by proclamation of King George V in 1921.

The use of coats of arms originated in Europe in the medieval period. The first coats of arms served to distinguish combatants on the battlefield. They were quickly adopted throughout all facets of society to identify individuals or other legal entities, such as organizations, municipalities, regions, and countries. The practice of heraldry, which we call the field of study and creation of coats of arms and other related emblems, continues to this day. Coats of arms still serve to create visual "identity cards" that represent their bearers. They are especially found in official contexts, as is the case for the arms of sovereign countries.

The Coat of Arms of Canada display the royal emblems of England, Scotland, Ireland, and France, while also featuring distinctly Canadian symbols.

The Royal Crown that sits atop the Coat of Arms indicates that these are the Arms of His Majesty the King in Right of Canada.

Canada's motto is A Mari Usque Ad Mare, which translates to "From Sea to Sea".

In 1994, a circular, red ribbon was added to the Arms, displaying the motto of the Order of Canada: Desiderantes Meliorem Patriam (meaning "They desire a better country").