How to make a coat of arms

A coat of arms is a design made up of different elements which belong to a particular person or group of people. Originating in the medieval period, knights would use them to identify between their allies and their enemies in combat or a tournament.

Even today, a coat of arms is often displayed by schools, institutions and universities, as a form of identity. We see them on coins, newspapers, buildings, clothing and various other objects.

Some examples are:

• UK Royal Coat of Arms
• Prince of Wales feathers
• UK parliament

The logos we see today, designed to advertise a company or product are more simple forms of the coat of arms, designed to make the company or product instantly recognised.

Some examples are:

• Apple inc's apple design
• British Railways (to 1948)
• British Rail (from 1948)
• London Olympics 2012
• London Underground

Not only can you create your coat of arms but you can see images of some from our collections at Plymouth and West Devon Record Office. The reference numbers are attached, so if you would like to see the original artwork on the documents, please telephone us on 01752 305940 or find details on our bookings and opening times page to make an appointment.

Create your own coat of arms (how to do it) [50.8KB]

Create your own coat of arms (bottom mantling) [291.3KB]

Create your own coat of arms (top mantling) [301.1KB]

Create your own coat of arms (templates) [451.7KB]

Create your own coat of arms (supporters) [278.4KB]

Create your own coat of arms (my coat of arms) [535.6KB]

Create your own coat of arms (Plymouth town coat of arms from 1824) [140.5KB]

Create your own coat of arms (coat of arms pedigree of the Wood family, 19th century) [1.6MB]

Create your own coat of arms (Plymouth coat of arms from 1837) [269.4KB]

Create your own coat of arms (grant of arms to Sir John Rogers of Wisdome from 1701) [1MB]

Create your own coat of arms (grant of arms to Sir Frederic Rogers, Baron Blatchford of Wisdome from 1872) [1.6MB]

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