Size: 6.5 x 4 cm (2.56 x 1.57 inch) The flag of the US Virgin Islands consists of a white base with a yellow bald eagle in the center. The shield of the United States rests on the eagle's chest and the eagle is holding three arrows and a sprig of laurel. Meaning: The letters V and I, on either side of the eagle stand for the Virgin Islands. The three arrows being held by the eagle symbolize St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John; which are the three main islands that make up the U.S. Virgin Islands. The white base of the flag symbolizes purity, and the eagle is displayed with the shield of the United States on its chest. History: The US Virgin Islands flag was adopted on May 17, 1921. It is based on the United States coat of arms, also known as the Great Seal of the United States. Interesting facts: The US Virgin Islands were formerly called the Danish West Indies, but Denmark sold the islands to the U.S. in 1917 for 25 million dollars. Flags prior to 1917 incorporated the Danish flag in them (source: worldflags101).
