Coat of arms of Ecuador
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The coat of arms of Ecuador (Spanish: Escudo de armas del Ecuador) in its current form has been established in 1900 based on an older version of 1845.
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[edit] Blazon
In the background of the oval shield is the volcano Chimborazo, while the river originating from its base represents the Guayas. They both symbolize the beauty and wealth of the respective regions (Sierra or Costa). The ship swimming on the river is named Guayas as well. In 1841 it was built in Guayaquil and has been the first seaworthy steamship built on the Southamerican west coast. Instead of a mast it features a Caduceus representing trade and economy. On top a golden sun surrounded by the astrological signs for Aries, Taurus, Gemini and Cancer representing the months March to July to symbolize the duration of the March Revolution of 1845.
The Condor on top of the shield stretches its wings to symbolize power, greatness and strength of Ecuador. The shield is flanked by four flags of Ecuador. The laurel on the left represents the glory of the republic[1]. The palm leaf on the right side is a symbol for peace. The Fasces below the shield represents the republican dignity.
[edit] History
The shield has been introduced after the liberal revolution of 1845 but then flanked by white-blue-white flags which did replace the later reintroduced Tricolor. The coat of arms in its current form has been approved by congress on October 31st 1900.
[edit] Usage
The coat of arms is used by the President, the parliament, the ministries and several other authorities and public institutions. It is part of the flag, and used on many coins and bills of the former currency Sucre and the today's used coins Centavos del dólar of Ecuadorian mintage.
[edit] References
- d'Angelo, Graciela, Ferran Cartes, Montse Plass et al (1999). Enciclopedia del Ecuador. Oceano. ISBN 8449414482.
[edit] Notes
- ^ Other descriptions attribute it to the symbolization of the glory of the heroes of independence.
