For any person to have a right to a coat of arms they must either have had it granted to them or be descended in the legitimate male line from a person to whom arms were granted or confirmed in the past.

A shield design can communicate stability, protection, longevity, tradition, solidity, masculinity, toughness, boldness, confidence, no retreat, no surrender. A crest design says tradition, traditional, official, historical, strong, solid, credentialed.

In modern times, individuals, public and private organizations, corporations, cities, towns, regions, and other entities use heraldry and its conventions to symbolize their heritage, achievements, and aspirations.

What does it mean if your family has a family crest? You can tell a lot about your ancestry from your Coat of arms and family crest. They were originally intended to recognise family achievements and heritage, and the design can give insight into your family's history and legacy.