The committee included artist Carlisle Chang (1921–2001) and carnival designer George Bailey (1935–1970).

The shield comprises the same colours (black, red, and white) as the nation's flag and carry the same meaning.

The island rising out of the waters beneath the Cocrico represents Tobago.

[4] In August 2024, Prime Minister Keith Rowley announced at the annual convention of the People's National Movement that his government planned to remove Columbus's sailing ships from the coat of arms and replace them with the steelpan drum, the national musical instrument,[5] as part of efforts to remove "colonial vestiges".

[6] A bill to do so was passed in the House of Representatives and Senate in January 2025, and as of 1 February is awaiting assent from the President of Trinidad and Tobago.