<P> The basic design of the current flag of Spain with the coat of arms is specified by rule 3 of the Royal Decree 1511 / 1977, that states the following: </P> <Ul> <Li> The coat of arms of Spain has a height equal to ​ ⁄ of the hoist (width) and will figure on both sides of the flag . </Li> <Li> When the flag is of regular proportions, having length equal to ​ ⁄ of the width, the coat's axis is placed at a distance from the hoist equal to ​ ⁄ of the flag's width . </Li> <Li> If the flag's length is less than normal, the coat of arms is placed at the center of the flag . </Li> </Ul> <Li> The coat of arms of Spain has a height equal to ​ ⁄ of the hoist (width) and will figure on both sides of the flag . </Li> <Li> When the flag is of regular proportions, having length equal to ​ ⁄ of the width, the coat's axis is placed at a distance from the hoist equal to ​ ⁄ of the flag's width . </Li>

What is the meaning of the shield on the spanish flag