History of the Spanish Coat of Arms

For thousands of men and women who served in the U. S. Army, this coat of arms represents the Presidio of San Francisco. The Presidio adopted the Coat of Arms of Royal Spain for heraldry purposes. It appeared on plaques at the Officers' Club, historic signs around the post, and as badges on caps and other wearing apparel, etc.

Components of this emblem symbolize different aspects of the Spanish empire.

Black double eagle: A symbol of the Holy Roman Empire brought to Spain by Emperor Charles V (I of Spain) in 1530. Before that, the Catholic Kings (Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabell of Castile) used a one-headed black eagle (for St. John), and this eagle was used again in the Spanish arms under General Franco's Regime until 1977.

Crown: Represents the Royal Spanish Kingdom.

Lions: The rampant lions are derived from the Kingdom of Leon.

Castles: The two castles are derived from the Kingdom of Castile.

Sheep: The small dangling sheep at the down point of the shield originates from the Order of the Golden Fleece from Greek mythology, founded by Phillip the Good of Burgundy in 1430.