A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Wechsler family of Germany.
Reg. 9882 · German, W–Z
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
knightChivalry and service in arms
Colours
Gold (Or)Means: Generosity
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“D'or à un homme iss., posé de profil, hab. de sa., coiffé du même, rebr. du premier, supp. de sa main dextre un besant d'arg., et tenant de sa sen. une bourse du même. C.: l'hom-”
GermanyNördlingen Bav, c. 1765
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Map of Germany showing where the Wechsler arms are recorded
The Wechsler arms were recorded in Nördlingen 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 Wechsler 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 Wechsler Family in Germany
The surname Wechsler is an occupational name that originated in German-speaking regions during the Middle Ages. It is derived from the Middle High German word *wëhseler*, which referred to a money changer or a banker. In a time when many different local currencies were in circulation, these individuals played a crucial role in trade by exchanging coins and facilitating financial transactions at markets. By the year 1765, records confirm that members of the Wechsler family were well-established in the town of Nördlingen. This Bavarian city was a significant center for commerce and trade, making it a logical place for a family with a background in finance to reside. Over generations, the name transitioned from a professional title to a hereditary family name, reflecting the family's long-standing connection to the economic life of their community.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Wechsel
A change, exchange, or barter.
This name
WechslerAn occupational name for a money changer or someone who performed currency exchanges.
also spelled
Wechsel
Weksler
Related arms
Anhaltsimilar arms
Magninisimilar arms
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Bahlow, Hans, Deutsches Namenlexikon: Familien- und Vornamen nach Ursprung und Sinn erklärt, 1967
Heintze, Albert, Die deutschen Familiennamen: geschichtlich, geographisch, sprachlich, 1903
Stadtarchiv Nördlingen, Bürgerbuch der Stadt Nördlingen
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
knightChivalry and service in arms
knightChivalry and service in arms
