The previous coat of arms, adopted in 1967 by the colony of Saint Christopher-Nevis-Anguilla, was nearly identical, except for coloration and the motto "Unity in Trinity".

The centre of the coat of arms is dominated by a shield at the base in which there is a lighter in full sail (one of the traditional means of transportation).

[1] A helmet topped with the battlements of a tower appears with a flaming torch upheld by three hands: one black, one white, and one mixed.

The torch signifies the struggle and quest for freedom by a people of diverse ethnic origins, but united in purpose.

The shield is supported on either side by pelicans (the country's national bird), with wings extended, displaying a sugar cane plant and the coconut palm tree, which are extensively cultivated throughout Saint Kitts and Nevis.