The Nichols 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 Nichols
Nichols (Nicholls / Nicolls) is an ancient English patronymic surname meaning "son of Nicholas" (derived from the Greek name Nikolaos, meaning "victory of the people"). Established across Cornwall, Devon, Essex, and Northamptonshire following the Norman Conquest, the House of Nichols held influential manorial seats, producing High Sheriffs, judges, and colonial governors. Codified early in feudal records, the name appears in the 1273 Hundred Rolls of Cambridgeshire (John Nichole).
The symbolism of the Nichols coat of arms
Commanding and watchful, the Nichols coat of arms features a black shield charged with three steel pheons or broad arrowheads pointed downward with golden sockets (two in chief, one in base). In classical heraldry, the black field symbolises deep wisdom, dignity, and constancy under trial, while the three steel pheons represent martial readiness, sharp intellect, archer's precision, and formidable defense of domain. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a black raven or crow standing, symbolising acute watchfulness, memory, and longevity. Below, the motto scroll displays Fide, sed cui vide, translating to "Trust, but be careful in whom you trust." The formal recognition of this coat of arms was recorded in the Heralds' Visitations of Cornwall and catalogued in Burke's General Armory.
Historical figures
Sir Augustine Nichols (1559–1616): Famed English judge of the Common Pleas and Privy Councillor.
Lady Margaret Nichols (17th Century): Recorded gentlewoman and benefactor in Northamptonshire land rolls.
Colonel Richard Nicolls / Nichols (1624–1672): 1st English Governor of the Province of New York.
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. ⚜️
