- The Governor General of Canada
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Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
Ottawa, Ontario
Registration of Arms
July 9, 1993
Vol. II, p. 254
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Blazon
Arms
Per pale Purpure and Gules a rod of Aesculapius ensigned by a coronet of four maple leaves set upon a rim Or;
Crest
An eagle regardant Or crowned with a Royal Crown and supporting with the dexter talon a Mace erect Or tipped with a maple leaf Gules veined Or;
Motto
MENTE PERSPICUA MANUQUE APTA;
Symbolism
Arms
The purple and red colours represent physicians and surgeons respectively, recalling the college gowns worn by fellows in the division of medicine and the division of surgery. The rod of Aesculapius is the traditional symbol of medicine, and appeared on the original seal of the college in 1929. The coronet of maple leaves indicates that the college is a Canadian body with royal designation and a royal charter.
Crest
This is based on the crest of the college’s sister organization, the Royal College of Surgeons of England. This version uses a maple leaf at the head of the mace, as well as different colouring for the eagle.
Motto
This Latin phrase, meaning “With a keen mind and skillful hand”, was used on the original seal of the college.