Coat of arms of Victoria, British Columbia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The coat of arms of the city of Victoria, British Columbia |
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| Adopted | 1962 |
| Crest | Descending upon a mural crown Or a dove wings expanded in the beak a sprig of olive proper, the whole ensigned of an eye within a triangle the base eradiated downwards Or |
| Blazon | Azure on a pile Argent another Gules charged with the Royal Crown proper. |
| Supporters | On either side an angel proper vested Argent winged Or supporting by the interior hand a branch of laurel Vert |
| Compartment | Upon a compartment of clouds proper the base environed of a riband Azure and Argent. |
| Motto | Semper Liber, Latin for "always free." |
| Other elements | The mantling, gules doubled or. |
The coat of arms of the city of Victoria is a special symbol for the city. It was officially given to Victoria in 1962. Later, in 2005, it was registered with the Canadian Heraldic Authority. This authority keeps track of all official symbols in Canada.
While Victoria uses a modern logo for everyday things, the coat of arms is kept for important legal papers. It is also used for historical events and traditional ceremonies.
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What is Victoria's Coat of Arms?
The City of Victoria's Coat of Arms was created in 1962. This was a special year because it was the city's 100th birthday. The design was based on the city's old seal. It was created by a designer named Alan Beddoe.
At first, the coat of arms was approved by the College of Arms in London, England. This was because Canada used to follow English rules for these symbols. Later, the Canadian Heraldic Authority officially registered it in Canada in 2005.
Symbols on the Shield
The main part of the coat of arms is the shield. It has a unique design with two "piles." These are like pointed shapes that look like a white "V." This "V" shape divides the shield into red and blue parts.
The "V" stands for Victoria, the city's name. It also shows how the city sits on a piece of land that sticks out into the blue sea. On the red part of the shield, there is a Royal Crown. This crown is another way to remember Queen Victoria, who the city is named after.
The Crest and Supporters
Above the shield, there is a special part called the crest. It includes a mural crown, which is a common symbol for cities. From this crown, a dove flies down. The dove holds an olive branch in its beak.
Behind the dove, you can see an Eye of Providence. This eye is inside a triangle with rays of light. The dove, olive branch, and eye are all symbols of peace and good fortune.
Two winged figures stand on either side of the shield. These figures are called supporters. They are said to represent "Colony" and "Civilization." They hold branches of laurel, which symbolize honor and victory. The figures stand on clouds and wavy blue and white lines. These lines are a heraldic way to show water.
Victoria's City Logo
In the year 2000, the mayor and city council decided to use a new logo. They called it the "V Banner." They wanted a clear and modern image for the city. This logo was officially protected by a trademark in 2001.
The "V Banner" logo is a wavy, blue, triangular shape. It also has the words "The City of Victoria" written on it. This logo is used for all city messages and everyday things. Local businesses can even use it if they get permission.
The city keeps the coat of arms for very special occasions. These include official ceremonies, important legal documents, and events involving the mayor. The logo is for daily use, while the coat of arms is for more formal and traditional purposes.
