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 was established in 1900 based on an older version of 1845.

1 Blazon
2 History
3 Usage
4 References
5 Notes
6 External links

[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 on the river is named Guayas as well. In 1841 it was built in Guayaquil and was the first seaworthy steamship built on the South American 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

Flag of Ecuador

The shield was 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 was approved by congress on October 31, 1900.

[edit] Usage

2 Sucres in Silver, 1944

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.