History of the Antigua and Barbuda Flag
How Reginald Samuel’s 1966 competition design became the national flag on February 27, 1967 and survived the transition to full independence in 1981.
Why was a new flag created?
In the mid-1960s Antigua was preparing for a new constitutional status as an associated state with Britain. A national competition was held to create a distinctive flag for the territory. The winning design came from Antiguan artist and sculptor Reginald Samuel.
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda records that Samuel designed the flag in 1966.
When was the flag adopted?
The flag was officially adopted on February 27, 1967, the same date Antigua entered associated-state status. The design introduced the rising golden sun, red side panels and the central black-blue-white arrangement still seen today.
What happened at independence?
When Antigua and Barbuda became fully independent on November 1, 1981, the 1967 flag was retained rather than replaced. That continuity makes the flag both a symbol of the 1967 constitutional transition and of the modern independent state.
Flag timeline
FAQ
Who designed the Antigua and Barbuda flag?
Reginald Samuel, an Antiguan artist and sculptor.
When was the flag adopted?
February 27, 1967.
Was the flag changed in 1981?
No. The 1967 design was retained at independence.
