These arms were copied from a booklet published by the Department of the Secretary of State of Canada. They were adopted in 1638, "soon" after those of Nova Scotia. The white cross on the red background is a reversal of the Cross of St. George, the old flag of England (similar to the reversal of the cross of St. Andrew for Nova Scotia), while the lion and the unicorn are the supporters of the British coat of arms (for England and Scotland, respectively). The crest is remarkable in that it is an elk- there are no elk in Newfoundland, and never were (barring those possibly residing in zoos). It is probably there because no English herald in the early 17^th century could draw a caribou (which were common in Newfoundland and are still found there). The supporters are members of the Beothuk First Nation (now extinct, mainly due to things like smallpox and "lead poisoning". I have read a document which states the very bizarre theory that use of a person as a supporter indicates that that person (or his/her nation) has been subjugated and conquered. This position makes very little sense to me, especially when you look at the other human or humanoid supporters used in Canada- Greek goddesses, soldiers, sailors, lumberjacks, trappers, and Loyalists. And I strongly doubt that the city of Victoria is claiming to have conquered the angels). The motto beneath the shield reads "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God".

It is a pity that this well-designed coat of arms is not used in the provincial flag (as that of Nova Scotia is), as it would make a very attractive and distinctive flag.

The other emblems of Newfoundland can be found here.

There is also an unofficial flag and coat of arms for Labrador.