About plots on stamps ⁄ The coat of arms of Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda (Spanish for "Ancient" and "Bearded") is an island nation located on the eastern boundary of the Caribbean Sea with the Atlantic Ocean. It consists of two major islands — Antigua and Barbuda — and a number of smaller islets. All are close neighbors within the middle of the Leeward Islands, and are located roughly 17 degrees north of the equator.

The coat of arms of Antigua and Barbuda was designed in 1966 by Gordon Christopher. It was officially introduced on 16 February, 1967. The symbolism of the arms is more complex than that found on the Flag of Antigua and Barbuda, but many elements are similar.

At the top of the Coat of Arms is a pineapple, a fruit for which the islands are famous. There are several plants found around the shield, all abundant in the country: red hibiscus, sugarcane, and yucca plant. Supporting the shield is a pair of deer representing the wildlife of the islands.

The design on the shield shows the sun, also found on the flag, rising from a blue and white sea. The sun symbolises a new beginning, and the black background represents the African origins of many of the nations's citizens. At the bottom of the shield, in front of the sea, sits a stylised sugar mill.

At the bottom is a scroll upon which is written the national motto: "Each endeavouring, all achieving".

2009.11.28