Coat of Arms Definition

A coat of arms, also called an armorial bearing, is a design historically used to identify European knights. Over the course of time, coats of arms have been used in many countries for a variety of reasons. The art of displaying or recording them is called heraldry.

Features

A coat of arms usually consists of a shield bearing a crest and topped by a helmet. A motto often appears beneath the shield, and another image that distinguishes the bearer may be included in the design.

Britain

In Britain, coats of arms represented individuals. Sons could receive them from their fathers. Daughters or wives could bear the same arms, but only if the design was modified to show the woman's relationship to her father or husband.

Canada

The Governor General of Canada can grant coats of arms to citizens. The Canadian Heraldic Authority is at Rideau Hall in Ottawa.

Other Countries

Poland, Japan and the Nordic countries use forms of heraldry, and the Vatican has a coat of arms.

Legalities

Tampering with or displaying arms to which you are not entitled can lead to criminal charges in Scotland. England, Wales and Northern Ireland consider any issues a matter for civil law.

References

• College of Arms, Glasgow
• Coat of Arms of Pope Benedict XVI
• European Coat of Arms Museum

Resources

• Burke's General Armory