The large arms and the small version or badge
Origin/Meaning:
The arms were granted on July 7, 1978 and are based on the former colonial arms granted in 1956.
The arms show symbols for the different districts of the islands. The two turtles symbolise the Western District. The green cross with crossed spears, shield and arrows, symbolises the Central District. I have no information on the meaning of the chief.
The crest shows a sun over a traditional boat. The supporters are a salt water crocodile and a shark, two ferocious indigenous animals, suitable as protectors.
The shield is based on an image of a frigate bird standing on the motto To Lead is to Serve.
During colonial times the British Solomon Islands used two different arms. The large arms used similar symbols as the later national arms, but with a British lion in the chief. The other coat of arms was used as a badge on the flag of the colony, and showed as a main charge the turtle.
