The Franklin 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 Franklin
Franklin is an ancient English status surname derived from the Middle English frankeleyn (from Old French franc, meaning "free"). In feudal England, a franklin was a prominent freeholder who held land directly without feudal servitude, often serving as a magistrate, local judge, or grand juror. The family established early manorial seats across Northamptonshire, Hertfordshire, and Buckinghamshire. Codified in early feudal rolls, the name appears in the 1273 Hundred Rolls of Cambridgeshire (Ralph le Franclein).
The symbolism of the Franklin coat of arms
Rich and distinctive, the Franklin coat of arms features an argent / silver or white field charged with two red lions' heads erased, set on either side of a broad red diagonal band (bend) bearing a central silver dolphin between two golden birds. In classical heraldry, the silver field denotes sincerity and peace, while the red lions' heads represent fierce courage and noble standing. The red bend and silver dolphin symbolise knightly sashes of honour, swiftness, and affection for community. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a sea-dolphin entwined around a golden anchor, representing naval steadfastness and hope. Below, the motto scroll displays Pro rege et patria, translating to "For king and country." The formal recognition of this coat of arms was recorded in the Heralds' Visitations of Hertfordshire and Kent and catalogued in Burke's General Armory.
Historical figures
Sir John Franklin (15th Century): Early English landholder recorded in Hertfordshire administrative rolls.
Mary Franklin (c. 1650–1711): English writer, religious leader, and recorded community benefactor.
Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790): World-renowned polymath, scientist, diplomat, and Founding Father of the United States (descended from the Franklins of Ecton, Northamptonshire).
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.
Don’t see your family name?
I’m always happy to add new crests and products to the collection, so please get in touch if you can’t find what you're looking for. ⚜️
