The centre of the Coat of Arms is dominated by a Shield at the base of which there is shown a lighter in full sail, the lighter being one of the traditional means of transportation. A chevron in red is highlighted by two Poinciana (flamboyant) flowers, the National Flower. The Poinciana derives its name from M. de Poincy, the first French Governor of St. Kitts who is said to have introduced it into this area.
At the top of the Shield and on a blue background appears a Kalinago’s (Carib’s) Head supported by the Fleur de Lis and a Rose. The Kalinagos (Caribs) were the early inhabitants of these islands and the Fleur de Lis and the Rose signify the French and English elements respectively which were present with them in our early settlements and colonization.
A Helmet topped with the battlements of a Tower appears with the Torch enflamed rising therefrom and upheld by the Hands of an African, a European and a Person of mixed races. These islands witnessed many naval and other military encounters with varying fortunes of supremacy and several large forts were constructed. Prominent among these are Brimstone Hill in St. Kitts, “the Gibraltar” of the West Indies, and Fort Charles in Nevis. The Torch signifies the struggle and quest for freedom by a people of differing ethnic origins but united in purpose.
The Shield is supported on either side by Pelicans with wings extended displaying a sugar cane plant and the coconut palm tree, which are extensively cultivated throughout Saint Christopher and Nevis. The motto of our country is “COUNTRY ABOVE SELF“.
