Finland Heraldry

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Finland

Heraldry

Resources

Print Publications

• Stjernstedt, A. W. Sveriges ridderskaps och adels Wapenbok (Swedish Coats of Arms of Knights and Nobility). 5 vols. Stockholm: Lewertin & Sjöstedt, 1865–79. FS Catalog book 948.5 D6s
• Raneke, Jan. Nordisk heraldisk terminologi (Nordic Heraldic Terminology). Sverige: Svenska nationalkommittén för genealogi och heraldik, 1987. FS Catalog book 948 D6n
• Heraldisk Tidsskrift (Heraldic Periodical)." København: Societas Heraldical Scandinavica, 1960–. FS Library book 948 D65h

Background

In early times, coats of arms were common only among the noble class. Since the Finnish nobility was part of the Swedish nobility, most of the coats of arms for the noble families of Finland can be found in Swedish heraldic sources.

The history of heraldry in Finland is closely intertwined with the country's political and cultural development. As part of the Swedish Kingdom from the 13th century onwards, Finland adopted heraldic practices similar to those found in other Nordic countries. The earliest known Finnish coat of arms is the seal of Bertold, vouti (sheriff) of Häme Castle, dating back to 1297. During the Swedish era, coats of arms were granted to individuals and families as a symbol of their status and achievements.

After Finland became a Grand Duchy under Russian rule in 1809, the use of heraldry continued, albeit with some modifications. The Finnish coat of arms was incorporated into the Russian Empire's coat of arms, reflecting Finland's status as an autonomous territory. Following Finland's independence in 1917, the country adopted its own national coat of arms, based on the earlier Swedish design. In the mid-20th century, heraldry experienced a resurgence in popularity, with coats of arms being designed for municipalities and other organizations. Today, heraldry remains an important part of Finnish culture and is used in various contexts, from official documents to personal heraldry.