National Arms of the Solomon Islands
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Heraldry of the World Civic heraldry of the Solomon Islands |
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NATIONAL ARMS OF THE SOLOMON ISLANDS
Origin/meaning :
The arms were granted on July 7, 1978 and are based on the former colonial arms.
The arms show symbols for the different districts of the islands. The two turtles symbolise the Western District. The green cross with crossed spears, shield and arrows, symbolises the Central District. The eagle represents the island of Malaita. The frigate birds represent the Outer Islands.
The crest shows a sun over a traditional boat. The supporters are a salt water crocodile and a shark, two ferocious indigenous animals, suitable as protectors.
The shield is based on an image of a frigate bird standing on the motto To Lead is to Serve.
Colonial arms
The colonial arms were granted in 1956.
During colonial times the British Solomon Islands used two different arms. The large arms used similar symbols as the later national arms, but with a British lion in the chief. The other coat of arms was used as a badge on the flag of the colony, and showed as a main charge the turtle for the Western district, as well as 8 points for the 8 main islands.
 The large colonial arms |
 The small version or badge |