The Americans Shelling Out Five Figures for a Coat of Arms
A nation founded on the rejection of aristocratic traditions still yearns for them.
TL;DR
- The College of Arms in London is responsible for granting and regulating coats of arms in Britain.
- Americans represent a substantial portion of non-British citizens applying for honorary arms, often citing interest in history and design.
- The process of obtaining arms involves genealogical research and design, with costs around $12,000.
- Historically, disputes over arms were settled by a Court of Chivalry, and demand increased after the Industrial Revolution.
- Modern applicants can inherit arms or design new ones, with heralds encouraging unique choices over common symbols like lions.
- Scam companies online offer fake arms and titles, leading some to seek legitimate registration through official channels.
- The College of Arms is staffed by officers including kings of arms, heralds, and pursuivants, who operate as independent contractors.
- Notable historical figures like Admiral Nelson and Margaret Thatcher had coats of arms, with specific choices reflecting their lives and achievements.
- The practice of creating official symbols began in America shortly after the Declaration of Independence with the Great Seal.
- The language of heraldry is a form of pseudo-abstract, corrupted northern French, originating after the Norman Conquest.
- Modern heraldry has adapted to include women bearing arms on lozenges or ovals and is open to designing joint arms for same-sex couples.
- Individuals use their coats of arms on various personal items, signifying a desire to visually represent their heritage and identity.