In earlier centuries mainly people with an official function needed a coat of arms, used for seals on important documents. Consequently patrician families will often have a long tradition with coats of arms. On the other hand, many coats of arms used today were newly created during the 19th and 20th centuries. The SGS does not keep a collection of coats of arms.

Instead, upon request information about relevant collections will be supplied.

The Swiss Heraldic Society was founded in 1891. The society aims at studying and conserving heraldry in Switzerland, including the design, description and correct usage of coats of arms. Also considered are the related aspects of seals, flags and banners, numismatics and art history.

Contact:
Schweizerische Heraldische Gesellschaft
Dr. Sabine Sille Maienfisch (Präsidentin)
Case Postale 36
CH - 1585 Salavaux
Switzerland
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.schweiz-heraldik.ch/

The "Wappenkommission der Zünfte Zürichs" (Heraldic Commission of the Guilds of Zürich) was established in 1945. The Commission passes an expert opinion on the coats of arms of members of the Zürich Guilds and Corporations, and supports them with all heraldic questions. The Commission also accepts orders from individuals or societies to research and evaluate existing coats of arms, or to create new ones.

Contact:
Wappenkommission der Zünfte Zürichs
Hansjürg Michel (Obmann)
Drusbergstrasse 8
CH - 8820 Wädenswil
Switzerland
http://www.wappenkommission.ch/