Ó Murchú – Murphy Family Crest beer glass

Here’s a proper gift for all those sea-warrior Ó Murchú - Murphys who enjoy a beer! Their Family Crest on a sturdy 16oz pint glass. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal. Sláinte!

Symbolism of the Ó Murchú Crest

This Ó Murchú coat of arms features a quartered shield with red and silver fields, a black horizontal band across the centre, and three gold wheatsheaves. In heraldic tradition, red symbolizes courage and martial strength, silver denotes peace and sincerity, black stands for constancy, and gold represents generosity and honour. The wheatsheaves are a longstanding heraldic emblem of abundance and plenty, while the lions signify courage and noble bearing. The crest above the shield displays a red lion clutching a wheatsheaf, reinforcing the themes of strength and sustenance. The motto Fortis et hospitalis translates to “Brave and hospitable.” The most credible historical evidence for this version of the Ó Murchú / Murphy crest traces one Murphy line to Mount Merrion, County Dublin, and another to Kilbrew, County Meath, with a recorded grant to William Murphy, Esq., descendant of his grandfather William Murphy of Mount Merrion. This crest design reflects an older Irish heraldic form linked to family branches in County Dublin and County Meath, rooted in the broader Gaelic Murphy sept tradition.

Origin of the Ó Murchú name

Ó Murchú is the modern Irish language form of the older Gaelic names Ó Murchadha or Mac Murchadha, derived from murchadh, meaning “sea warrior.” The surname is deeply rooted in Irish heritage and appears in several historic Irish branches rather than a single universal family line. One tradition places early Murphy families in County Wexford, while other sources cite distinct septs in Cork, Sligo/Roscommon, Tyrone, and Armagh. Because the surname originated in multiple regions, various Murphy heraldic forms exist, each linked to specific historical lines. This particular 'Mount Merrion' version is certainly widely recognised as the best known Murphy crest not least because of the famous beer brand associated with it. Additionally, the Murphys of Wexford have a family crest featuring an apple tree and a golden lion, also featured on this website.

About the artist

Each crest on this site is a faithful reproduction of original artwork by heraldic artist Éamonn Breathnach. Éamonn’s creations are carefully researched, drawing from the earliest extant records across multiple heraldic archives. Noted for their precision and artistry, these prints offer a meaningful gift for family and friends on any occasion.

Product details:
• Glass material
• Volume: 16 oz (473 ml)
• Not dishwasher or microwave recommended – hand wash only.

As a result, the glass may feature minor imperfections such as bubbles and dots, lending each piece unique character.

Size guide