Scottish crest badges are a way for individuals to show their allegiance to a particular Scottish clan or family. They consist of a heraldic crest (a design or symbol that sits atop a helmet) surrounded by a strap and buckle bearing the clan or family motto. The crest is often taken from the coat of arms of the clan or family, and can include elements such as animals, plants, and weapons. They are often worn on clothing, such as a sash or cap, or as a piece of jewelry. Crest badges have been used in Scotland since the 15th century and are an important part of Scottish heraldry and tradition.This post shows the Clan Macneil crest badges.
Crest Badges
The Clan crest badge is worn to show allegiance to a particular clan and chief. The crest badge usually contains the heraldic crest and heraldic motto of the chief of the clan. The Clan MacNeil crest contains: on a chapeau lined with ermine, a rock proper. The motto is buaidh no bas, which translates from Scottish Gaelic as "to conquer or die", or "victory or death".
Macneils of Colonsay distinguish themselves from the Barra branch through their own crest badge which contain: an armoured dexter arm with dagger; and the motto: vincere aut mori, which translates from Latin as "conquer or die".
