Animals

• Animals are one of the most common symbols used in coat of arms and the symbols are specific for each animal. Dragons usually symbolize protection and defenders of great treasure. Other animals commonly used were dogs, such as greyhounds and mastiffs, that symbolize loyalty and courage. Serpents and spiders mean wisdom and prudence, and larger animals like bears symbolize strength and cunning. A boars head stands for hospitality, while a whole boar means bravery and a fight to the death. Bulls and bull heads also symbolize bravery, and cats represent liberty and vigilance.
  
  

Weapons & Tools

• Agricultural tools like scythes and shovels usually meant the owner worked the land for sustenance. Symbols of arrows indicate readiness for war unless shown with a cross, which then represents an affliction. Axes indicate an execution of military duty and batons are a symbol of authority. A bow and arrow symbolize war and power, and other weapons, like cannons and grenades, mean the family used those weapons in war. Swords and daggers represent justice and military honor. Drums and spearheads indicate a readiness for war, and a pilgrim staff indicates strong Christian faith. Flaming torches represent life, truth and intelligence.
  
  

Nature

• Trees are often found on coats of arms and they usually symbolize life and a connection between heaven and earth. Cypress trees specifically mean death and eternal life, but apples and apple trees symbolize liberty and peace. Acorns mean antiquity and strength, while bay leaves symbolize poetry. A broom plant often means humility. A civic wreath made of oak leaves and acorns indicate someone in the family saved a person's life or showed patriotism. Clouds mean mystery and obscurity, and a cornucopia indicates a bounty of nature's gifts.
  
  

Structures and Furniture

• A structure such as a castle represents safety, while a bridge stands for a governor or magistrate. Towers also mean safety as well as grandeur. Fountains represent water or a spring. Tables mean hospitality, and tents indicate readiness for battle. Castle gates usually stand for protection. Pillars symbolize fortitude, or wisdom with fortitude when a snake is wrapped around the pillar. Ships indicate an ancient and noble voyage that made the owner famous, but a dismasted ship means a disaster at sea.