The Coat of Arms of Uruguay refers to the heraldic device used by the South American country from 1829 until its replacement in 1908. The design symbolizes the unity and identity of Uruguay, combining various elements that reflect the nation's history and values. At its center is a shield, divided into four quarters, each quarter representing one of the provinces that composed Uruguay during colonial times: Artigas, Colonia, Maldonado, and Rio Grande do Sul (a Portuguese province that borders Uruguay). Above the shield stands a phoenix, symbolizing the rebirth of the nation after its struggles for independence. The coat of arms is completed by a ribbon bearing the national motto, "Liberty or Death." The design underwent minor modifications in 1908 when the four provinces were replaced with five departments, but it was not until 1968 that the current coat of arms was officially adopted.