King Frederik of Denmark has unveiled a redesigned royal coat of arms, prominently featuring symbols of Greenland and the Faroe Islands, The Guardian reports.
This bold change, occurring less than a year after he ascended the throne, is seen by some as a clear message of intent to solidify the kingdom’s relationship with its autonomous territories and a potential rebuke to recent statements by US incoming President Donald Trump.
For centuries, the Danish royal coat of arms had featured three crowns, representing the historical Kalmar Union, which united Denmark, Norway, and Sweden under Danish leadership from 1397 to 1523. These crowns also hold significance for Sweden. However, in the newly updated version, these crowns have been replaced by a polar bear, symbolizing Greenland, and a ram, representing the Faroe Islands, in a more prominent display than before.
The timing of the change comes amid growing tensions surrounding Greenland. The territory’s relationship with Denmark has become increasingly complex, particularly given its continued dependence on Denmark for foreign and security policy. Recently, Greenlandic Prime Minister Múte Egede accused Denmark of genocide in response to investigations into the forced contraceptive scandal of the 1960s and 70s. Egede has also been vocal in his calls for Greenlandic independence, urging the removal of “the shackles of the colonial era.”
The redesign also follows renewed interest from the United States regarding Greenland. Trump recently reiterated his desire for the US to purchase the territory. Additionally, Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., is currently on a private visit to Greenland to record a podcast, although he is not meeting with any local officials, according to a government official. Trump Sr. confirmed the trip in a post.
“Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside World. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!” he wrote on his Truth Social platform.
The Danish royal household has stated that the updated coat of arms, which is used on official documents and seals and has roots that go back to the 12th century, “strengthens the prominence of the commonwealth.” The removal of the three crowns, they stated, is due to them being “no longer relevant.” The changes, they explained, followed a recommendation from a committee appointed after King Frederik’s accession on January 14, 2024.
The royal arms have been changed three times previously since 1819, in 1903, 1948, and 1972. However, the latest redesign has been met with surprise and, in some quarters, shock.
