Coat of Arms

The wreath surrounding the coat of arms consists of 50 leaves around the shield in the middle of the flag represent the year 1950 when Belize started its quest for independence.  

The shield is divided into three sections. The upper left section shows a squaring ax with a paddle, representing the logging industry (Britannica, 2024). The lower section shows a ship on waves, symbolizing trade and maritime connections. The upper right section shows a saw and a beating ax, both tools that are essential equipment for the mahogany trade that was Belize's first industry. 

Two men support the shield: On the left a Mestizo Belizean holding a beating axe on his shoulder in his right hand symbolizes the tools used in the timber trade, specifically for shaping and processing logs. On the right an Afro-Belizean holding a paddle on his shoulder in his left hand symbolizes the method of transporting those logs—floating them downriver to be exported. (Editorial Team, 2024) They represent the diverse ethnic groups that came together to build Belize. 

Below the shield is a mahogany tree, which played a crucial role in Belize's colonial economy (Britannica, 2024). Mahogany was a valuable export and the basis of the colony's wealth. 

At the bottom is the national motto: "Sub Umbra Floreo," which means "Under the Shade I Flourish" in Latin (Editorial Team, 2024). This refers to Belize's forests and its establishment as a colony under British protection.