Africa · Western Africa

Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha

Capital: Jamestown
Population: 4,255
Region: Africa
Languages: English

Fun fact

This remote territory is home to Jonathan the Seychelles giant tortoise, who is officially recognized as the world's oldest known living land animal. Having arrived on Saint Helena in 1882, he has lived through the reigns of eight British monarchs and the terms of 40 US presidents. Jonathan resides on the grounds of Plantation House, the official residence of the Governor, and continues to be a major draw for visitors who manage the long journey to the island.

Currency

The official currency is the Saint Helena Pound (SHP), which is held at at parity with the British Pound Sterling. Historically, because of its extreme isolation, the islands used a variety of foreign silver coins and East India Company tokens until a standardized local currency was formally established.

Flag symbolism

The flag follows the traditional British Blue Ensign format, featuring the Union Jack in the canton to signify its status as a British Overseas Territory. On the fly side, it displays the local coat of arms, which features a shield depicting a rocky shoreline and a three-masted sailing ship. The use of blue represents the surrounding Atlantic Ocean, while the specific imagery on the shield highlights the territory's historical dependence on maritime trade and its isolation.

Emblem history

The badge prominently features the Saint Helena Plover, also known as the Wirebird, which is the national bird and the only surviving endemic land bird on the island. Below the bird, a shield depicts a coastal scene where a rugged cliff face looms over a sailing ship, a design that dates back to the seal of the East India Company. This imagery commemorates the era when the islands served as a vital refreshment station for ships traveling between Europe and the East Indies.