National Arms of Saint Kitts and Nevis
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The National Arms of Saint Kitts and Nevis
Official blazon
Origin/meaning
The arms were adopted in 1983.
In 1871 St. Kitts (St. Christopher), Nevis, Anguilla, Antigua and the British Virgin Islands were united as the Leeward Islands crown colony. In 1882 St. Kitts, Nevis and Anguilla became a separate colony and this remained officially so until 1980, although de facto Anguilla was separated in 1967 (see Anguilla).
Until 1957 the three islands had their own badges. For St. Christopher a badge showing Columbus, for Nevis three virgins near a waterfall. For Anguilla a fisherman with a rowing boat.
 The badge of St. Kitts/St. Christopher |
 The badge of Nevis |
On June 4, 1957 the three badges were combined to for new arms for the colony.
 The arms of St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla from 1957 |
On February 16, 1967 the colony (officially still with Anguilla, but this island adopted separate arms), received new arms.
The islands have been in the possession of both the French and the English, which is depicted in the top of the shield: a local Indian's head between a French lily and English rose. Below are the Santa Maria, the flagship of Columbus as well as two local Poinciana-flowers. Above the shield three hands, a black, white and mixed-coloured, hold together a candle. The supporters are two pelicans, who hold a coconut palm and a sugar cane plant. The motto Unity in Trinity referred to the three islands.
 The arms from 1967 |
When St. Kitts and Nevis became independent in 1983 the arms were slightly changed. The ship was slightly changed and the motto was replaced by the new motto 'Country above self'.
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© since 1995, Heraldry of the World, Ralf Hartemink 
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Literature : http://www.christian-siemer.de/wappen/amerika/st-kitts_nevis.htm