Allen Family Crest framed artprint

The Allen Family Crest framed artprint. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.

Whether it’s a gift to celebrate a milestone birthday, a wedding or a housewarming—this piece is an instant heirloom.

The origin of the name Allen

Allen is an ancient Celtic and Breton surname derived from the personal name Ailin, meaning "little rock," "handsome," or "harmony." Introduced to England during the 1066 Norman Conquest by Breton followers of William the Conqueror, the name quickly took firm root across England, Scotland, and Ireland, establishing prominent merchant and landowning estates.

The symbolism of the Allen coat of arms

The Allen coat of arms is a masterwork of heraldic imagery, combining maritime strength with steadfast loyalty. The red (gules) shield is charged with three black hounds set within silver roundels, symbolising fierce fidelity and constant vigilance. Across the top, a radiant gold chief features a central black anchor flanked by two red lions rampant—emblems of maritime stability, hope, and regal courage. Below, the family motto scroll reads Virtus auro praeferenda, translating to "Virtue is to be preferred to gold." The earliest recorded evidence and official heraldic recognition of these Allen arms dates to 13th-century English heraldic rolls and London city charters.

Historical figures

William Allen (1532–1594): English cardinal and scholar who founded the English College at Douai.
Ralph Allen (1693–1764): Entrepreneur, philanthropist, and postal pioneer whose limestone quarries built Georgian Bath.
Ethan Allen (1738–1789): American Revolutionary War leader, patriot, and founder of the state of Vermont.

Product details

Ayous wood 0.75″ (1.9 cm) thick frame from renewable forests
Paper thickness: 10.3 mil (0.26 mm)
Paper weight: 189 g/m²
Lightweight & acrylite front protector
Hanging hardware included

No Warehouses. No Waste. Just for you, made to order

This product is printed especially for you when ordered, one at a time, by royal decree of Mother Nature to keep the realm beautiful. Family Crests Store guarantees your custom treasure meets all EU and USA safety standards.

About the artist

Each coat of arms in the Family Crests Store is an artwork by heraldic artist Éamonn Breathnach. All are carefully researched, drawing from the earliest available records across multiple heraldic archives. Noted for their elegance and attention to detail, these artworks make meaningful gifts for family occasions.