O'Connor Family Crest beer glass - with tree

Here’s a proper gift for any O’Connor who enjoys a beer! The O’Connor Family Crest on a sturdy 16oz pint glass. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.

Nicely suited for the moments that call for a proper toast. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a Father’s Day surprise, a housewarming or a wedding, this piece is an instant heirloom.

The origins of the O’Connor name

The surname O'Connor is one of the oldest and most historically significant family names in Ireland, deeply rooted in royal Gaelic heritage. Derived from the Irish Ó Conchobhair, it translates to "descendant of Conchobhar"—an ancient personal name generally interpreted to mean "lover of hounds" or "helpful chief." Rather than emerging from a single source, the surname evolved independently from at least five distinct regional clans or "septs" across the island, including branches in Kerry, Offaly, Clare, and Derry. The most illustrious of these was the Royal House of Connacht, a powerful dynasty that came to dominate medieval Irish politics. This lineage famously produced Turlough Mór O'Connor and his son Roderick (Ruaidrí) O'Connor, who reigned as the final High King of Ireland before the Anglo-Norman invasion of the 12th century.

The background and symbolism of the O'Connor coat of arms with the tree

This version of the O’Connor arms belongs to the O’Conor Don (and related branches O'Conor Roe and O'Conor Sligo), representing the Royal House of Connacht centered in County Roscommon. This lineage descends from Conchobhar, King of Connacht, who died in 971 AD. This specific branch produced the final two High Kings of Ireland: Turlough Mór O’Connor (1088–1156) and Roderick O’Connor (1116–1198). The title "O'Conor Don" was formally established following the death of King Charles O’Conor (Crobhderg) in 1224 AD to distinguish the senior line of the dynasty.

Heraldic Description & Symbolism

The Shield: Displays a 'fruited' tree on a silver/white background symbolising strength, constancy and long life.

The Crest (Top): Features an arm holding a short sword entwined with a serpent. The sword represents justice, military honour, and authority. The serpent wrapped around the blade is a classical heraldic symbol for wisdom, shrewdness, and defensive vigilance.

The Motto: The text written below the shield, Ó Dhia gach an cabhair, translates from Irish Gaelic to "From God every help."

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 and uniquely personal gifts for any occasion with family and friends.

Product details
• Sturdy pint glass
• Volume: 16 oz (473 ml)
Just a heads-up: this piece loves a gentle hand-wash! Dishwashers and microwaves get super hot, which might damage the print—so let's skip those to keep it looking perfect.

Size guide