- The Governor General of Canada
The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.
Great Seal of Canada
Ottawa, Ontario
Registration of a National Emblem
May 26, 2025
Vol. VIII, p. 382
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Badge
A tridecafoil charged with the Royal Crown, all within an annulus inscribed CHARLES III • KING OF CANADA • ROI DU CANADA;
Symbolism
Badge
The Royal Crown embodies the Canadian monarchy and the State acting in the Sovereign’s name. The decorative element surrounding it alludes to the arches of the rotunda in Confederation Hall, in the heart of Centre Block, highlighting Parliament as the focal point of Canadian democracy. It also makes a subtle reference to earlier great seals of Canada, which included depictions of architectural arches and columns. The King’s name and title appear in Canada’s two official languages.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on January 1, 1900, in Volume 0, page 0 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
Cathy Bursey-Sabourin
Calligrapher
* Not applicable / Sans objet
Recipient Information
Civil Institution
Government