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.
Ottawa, Ontario
Registration of Arms
July 9, 1993
Vol. II, p. 254
Arms of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of CanadaBlazonPer pale Purpure and Gules a rod of Aesculapius ensigned by a coronet of four maple leaves set upon a rim Or; SymbolismThe 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. |
CrestBlazonAn 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; SymbolismThis 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. |
MottoBlazonMENTE PERSPICUA MANUQUE APTA; SymbolismThis Latin phrase, meaning “With a keen mind and skillful hand”, was used on the original seal of the college. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationThe announcement of the letters patent was made on November 6, 1993 in Volume 127, page 3406 of the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of Alan Beddoe and the heralds of the College of Arms, London. PainterGordon Macpherson CalligrapherJudith Bainbridge Recipient TypeCivil Institution
Other InformationThe recipient's emblems were originally recorded in the records of the College of Arms, London, England, 20 November 1962. |