The anniversary of the Falklands Coat of Arms

As we commemorate the anniversary of the granting of the Falkland’s Coat of Arms on 29 September 1948 issued by a Royal Warrant. It is important to reflect the history and cultural significance embedded with this emblem. The Falkland Islands, a British Overseas Territory located in the South Atlantic Ocean, approximately 400 miles from the South American mainland, consists of two main islands and 788 smaller islands. This emblem serves as a symbol of the island’s heritage and identity.

The shield on the Coat of Arms is divided into two parts. The upper portion features a field with a ram, with the tussock grass symbolising the territory’s native plant life and the significance of sheep farming to the local economy. Since their colonisation, the Falklands have been largely dependent on the sheep industry, a tradition honoured by the ram in their coat of arms. The industry peaked around the 1900s, with the sheep population peaking at about 800,000.

The lower part of the shield features a ship and the territory’s motto: Desire the Right. “Desire”, the vessel that is commanded by the English explorer John Davis. Davis is credited with sighting the islands for the first time in history in 1592, when he was attempting to cross the Straits of Magellan and was blown off course by a storm. The “Desire” on the coat of arms highlights the historical tie between Falklands and the UK, emphasising the British discovery on the islands. Furthermore, the motto embodies the values of its democracy and justice. It shows Falklanders commitment to uphold justice and self-determination.

The Falkland Islands Coat of Arms is a significant emblem for the island. It is featured on government documents, the Falkland’s flag and other government documents. It serves as a reminder of the territory’s pasts, the importance of its industries and the values that its citizens hold.