New coat of arms Photo: Kongehuset.dk
King Frederik of Denmark has impressed the public and historians with his resonant change of the royal coat of arms, which focuses on the symbols of Greenland and the Faroe Islands. The move is seen as a response to statements made by former US President Donald Trump, who recently reiterated his desire to acquire Greenland, The Guardianreports.
The new Danish coat of arms no longer includes the three crowns that historically symbolised the Kalmar Union, the union of Denmark, Norway and Sweden between 1397 and 1523. Instead, the coat of arms clearly features the images of a polar bear and a ram, symbolising Greenland and the Faroe Islands, respectively.
Historical and political context
The change in the coat of arms comes less than a year after King Frederick ascended to the throne, succeeding his mother, Queen Margrethe, who abdicated on New Year’s Eve 2023. In his first New Year’s address, the king said:
“We are all united and obliged to work for the good of the Kingdom of Denmark – from the Danish minority in South Schleswig to Greenland. We are destined to be together.”
The decision to emphasise the connection with the autonomous territories came at a time when tensions between Denmark and Greenland are growing. Greenland’s Prime Minister Muthe Egede recently accused Denmark of genocide over the forced contraception scandal of the 1960s and 1970s, and repeated calls for independence.
Historians’ reaction and symbolic gesture
Experts believe that the change of the coat of arms is of great political importance. Historian Dick Harrison of Lund University said that Denmark’s abandonment of the three crowns, which were a symbol of its historical unity with Sweden and Norway, is a “sensation”.
Royal family expert Lars Govbakke Sørensen added:
“This is a signal to the whole world: Greenland and the Faroe Islands are an integral part of the Kingdom of Denmark. And this is not subject to discussion.”
Denmark’s new course
The change of the coat of arms is not only a gesture of historical significance, but also a confirmation of the new strategy of the royal government. King Frederik demonstrates a clear position on preserving territorial unity, especially in the context of international interest in the Arctic.
At a time when Greenland is increasingly voicing its intentions for independence, the King’s move is a symbol of unity, highlighting the importance of shared history and mutual interests. The coat of arms now serves as a reminder that Denmark remains responsible for its autonomous territories, even in times of political instability.
