Guyana’s “Golden Arrowhead” (26 May 1966) has a green field with a golden triangle edged in white and a red hoist triangle edged in black. Green represents forests and agriculture; gold mineral wealth and forward drive; white rivers; red zeal; black endurance. Protocol codifies use and construction.
Introduced at independence on 26 May 1966, Guyana’s national flag—“The Golden Arrowhead”—was selected from a competition and designed by vexillologist Whitney Smith, then refined locally by adding black and white fimbriations to sharpen symbolism and visibility. Its geometry and palette make it one of the most recognisable flags in the Americas.
The field is green for forests and agriculture. From the hoist extends a large golden triangle, pointing toward the fly to suggest advance and the country’s mineral wealth; a narrow white border along this shape denotes the many rivers and water resources that define Guyana’s landscape. Superimposed from the hoist is a red isosceles triangle for the zeal and dynamic spirit of the people, edged in black to represent endurance.
The National Flag of Guyana Act standardises proportions and colours and prescribes respectful handling, half‑masting for mourning, and dignified retirement. The banner replaced colonial ensigns and is now omnipresent at ministries, schools, and Independence and Republic Day ceremonies. Maritime variants follow international practice.