A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Wager family lines. Documented in 2 countries.
Reg. 6109 · German, W–Z
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Colours
Red (Gules)Means: Military strength
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“Coupé de gu. sur arg.; à un levier de l'un en l'autre, posé en bande, ch. au bout supérieur de deux poids et au bout inférieur d'un seul poids. C.: une tête et col d'aigle d'arg., tenant en son bec le levier, en bande.”
GermanyNordlingen Bav, c. 1765
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Map of Germany showing where the Wager arms are recorded
The Wager arms were recorded in Nordlingen Bav, c. 1765.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Germany in this period.
Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor
Sovereign of the period
Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor
1745–1765
Reigning in Germany when the Wager arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Germany
In the Holy Roman Empire, coats of arms were often granted to individuals by the Emperor or his representatives. These arms were then passed down through the generations to all legitimate descendants of the original holder. Younger branches of a family usually kept the same shield design without needing to change it, as the arms belonged to the entire lineage.
Granting authority
The Holy Roman Emperor held the sole power to grant new coats of arms throughout his vast imperial territories.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through a formal imperial grant or by proving their noble status to the authorities.
Where arms were recorded
These grants were officially recorded in the Imperial Chancery registers, which began keeping formal records of such honors during the Middle Ages.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Germany.
Origin & History of the Wager Family in Germany
The family name Wager finds its roots in the German language, where it likely originated as a descriptive term for a person who was bold or daring. In the context of the Holy Roman Empire, surnames often emerged from personal traits or specific occupations to help distinguish individuals within growing communities. By 1765, records confirm that members of the Wager family were established in the historic town of Nördlingen. During this period, Nördlingen was a significant center for trade and craftsmanship, known for its circular wall and its role as a Free Imperial City. Families living in such towns were often integrated into the local guild systems or agricultural networks that defined the social structure of the eighteenth century. The presence of the Wager name in this region suggests a long-standing connection to the Swabian area of Germany, where the family likely participated in the daily economic and civic life of the town during the late Enlightenment era.
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
heartSincerity, charity and true affection
Colours
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Gold (Or)Means: Generosity
Historical info
Source
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“Az. a chev. betw. three hearts or”
Englandc. 1620
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Map of England showing where the Wager arms are recorded
The Wager arms were recorded in England, c. 1620.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in York.
Yorkshire is the largest of the English counties, and it held more gentry families than any other. Land there was split among a great many households rather than a few, so a great many of them carried arms.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in England in this period.
James VI and I
Sovereign of the period
James VI and I
1603–1625
Reigning in Germany when the Wager arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in England
English heraldry allowed arms to be shared by all legitimate descendants of the original owner. These symbols were treated as personal property that moved through the generations to all children. While the eldest son kept the original design, other family members could use the same shield without needing to change it or register their own unique versions.
Granting authority
The College of Arms in London has regulated the use of coats of arms throughout England and Wales since 1484.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through a formal grant from the Crown or by proving their ancient right to them.
Where arms were recorded
All official coats of arms are recorded in the registers kept at the College of Arms, which date back to the fifteenth century.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of England.
Origin & History of the Wager Family in England
The surname Wager finds its roots in the social and economic landscape of medieval England, where it likely functioned as an occupational or descriptive name. Etymologists often link the name to the Middle English word "wager," which referred to a pledge, a bet, or a legal deposit. By the early 17th century, the family had established a notable presence in the historic city of York. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the Wager family were active participants in the civic and religious life of this northern hub. During this period, York was a center for trade and administration, providing a stable environment for families to grow and integrate into the local community. As the family moved through the generations, they became deeply connected to the regional identity of Yorkshire, reflecting the broader patterns of English migration and settlement that defined the era.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Wagen
A vehicle or cart used for transport.
This name
WagerAn occupational surname for a wagoner, cartwright, or someone who transported goods.
also spelled
Wagger
Waggere
Related arms
Rosenbaumrecorded with Wager, same area
Verlusrecorded with Wager, same area
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Stadtarchiv Nördlingen, Bürgerbuch der Stadt Nördlingen
Heimatmuseum Nördlingen, Archiv der Reichsstadt Nördlingen
Bahlow, Hans, Deutsches Namenlexikon: Familien- und Vornamen nach Ursprung und Sinn erklärt, 1972
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chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
heartSincerity, charity and true affection
