What Are Heraldic Symbols?

Heraldic symbols are essentially the visual language of family identity. Found on coats of arms, these symbols date back to medieval times, when knights, nobles, and later families used them to express values, allegiances, and achievements.

From lions to crescents, and swords to stars, each image carried powerful meaning — and they still do today. The coat of arms associated with a surname often includes several of these symbols, forming a rich tapestry of historical insight.

At Hall of Names, we use historic surname records to reproduce the earliest recorded coat of arms linked to a bearer of the name — and heraldic symbols play a key part in that story.

Where Did Heraldic Symbols Come From?

The tradition of heraldry began in the 12th century, developing alongside the rise of knighthood. As armour and helmets became more uniform, there was a need for bold, visible identification — both in tournaments and on the battlefield.

Knights began using colourful designs on shields and banners. Over time, these designs were formalised into coats of arms, complete with standardised symbols that conveyed personal and family meaning.

Symbols were soon governed by rules and recorded in registers, making heraldry one of the earliest systems of visual identity.

The Meaning Behind Common Heraldic Symbols

Many symbols appear time and again on coats of arms — but their meanings are anything but generic.

• Lion – Courage, strength, nobility
• Eagle – Leadership, vision, authority
• Cross – Faith, service, sacrifice
• Chevron – Protection, builders or defenders
• Stars – Divine quality, hope
• Fleur-de-lis – Purity, light, often linked to royalty
• Sword – Justice and military honour
• Crescent – Enlightenment, honour, second son

Want to explore more? Our dedicated guide explains what heraldic symbols mean on a coat of arms, covering dozens more. You’ll be able to use our easy to navigate A TO Z of symbols, to check against those on your name’s associated coat of arms.

Why Were Symbols So Important?

Heraldic symbols were more than decorative. In a time when literacy was rare, images spoke louder than words. The lion on a shield immediately declared bravery. A crescent signalled honour. Each coat of arms became a badge of identity — a way to tell your story visually.

Today, they offer a glimpse into the lives, values, and aspirations of those who first bore the name. Even if the spelling of that name changes over the years (Think Shakespeare which is spelt in a variety of ways!)

Coats of Arms and Surnames

Every coat of arms we feature is based on the earliest historically recorded version associated with a surname — not a personal family crest. These arms include symbols, crests, and sometimes mottos, all of which are carefully preserved in our heraldic records.

You can explore your own name by browsing our range of products featuring these traditional arms, including:

• Framed Coat of Arms Prints
• Crystal & Glass Gifts with Heraldry
• Heraldic Wall Shields & Plaques
• Homeware with Coats of Arms

Celebrate the Symbolism

Heraldic symbols allow us to celebrate a long history of storytelling through images. Whether you’re gifting a crystal tumbler, hanging a shield, or framing your surname scroll, you’re displaying symbols that carry centuries of meaning.

At Hall of Names, we’re proud to preserve this tradition through beautifully crafted, historically accurate products that connect people with their name’s past.