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Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

Ottawa, Ontario
Registration of Arms
July 9, 1993
Vol. II, p. 254

Arms of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
Arms of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada Arms of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

Arms of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

Blazon

Per pale Purpure and Gules a rod of Aesculapius ensigned by a coronet of four maple leaves set upon a rim Or;

Symbolism

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 of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

Blazon

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;

Symbolism

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 of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

Blazon

MENTE PERSPICUA MANUQUE APTA;

Symbolism

This Latin phrase, meaning “With a keen mind and skillful hand”, was used on the original seal of the college.

Background

Canada Gazette Information

The announcement of the letters patent was made on November 6, 1993 in Volume 127, page 3406 of the Canada Gazette.
Letters patent registering the heraldic emblems of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada Letters patent registering the heraldic emblems of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

Additional Information