The McCoy Family Crest mug. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.
Eminently suited for a proper brew! Whether it’s a gift to mark a milestone birthday, a new home, or Christmas morning — here’s an artwork with history in your hands.
The origin of the name McCoy
McCoy (MacCoy / MacAoidh) is an ancient Gaelic Irish and Scottish surname derived from Mac Aoidh (meaning "son of Aodh," or "son of fire"). Originating as a martial branch of the MacAoidh (Mackay) clan in the Scottish Hebrides, members settled prominently across Ulster (Counties Monaghan, Armagh, and Antrim) as galloglass (hereditary warrior) commanders during the 14th century. Serving regional chieftains, the McCoys established deep roots on both sides of the North Channel.
The symbolism of the McCoy coat of arms
Visually pure and watchful, the McCoy coat of arms features an argent / silver or white shield charged with two broad black horizontal bands (fesses), set between six black birds or martlets (three in chief, two in middle, one in base). In classical heraldry, the silver shield symbolises sincerity, peace, and unblemished judicial purity, while the two black horizontal bands represent knightly sashes of honor, architectural structure, and constancy under trial. The six black birds signify swift intellect, vigilance, and acute perception across generations. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a golden hound's or mastiff's head erased wearing a collar, symbolising faithful protection, alertness, and loyalty. The formal recognition of this coat of arms was registered in British and Irish armorial rolls and catalogued in Burke's General Armory.
Historical figures
Chieftain Gillacomgain MacCoy (15th Century): Galloglass commander recorded in early Ulster annals.
Mary McCoy (18th Century): Recorded gentlewoman and philanthropist in Monaghan parish registers.
Elijah McCoy (1844–1929): World-renowned inventor who held over 50 patents (origin of the phrase 'the real McCoy').
Product details
- High quality white ceramic mug with the family crest printed two sides
- Dishwasher and microwave safe
- 15 oz mug dimensions: 4.7″ (11.9 cm) in height, 3.3″ (8.5 cm) in diameter
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. ⚜️
