The Crest is a device displayed on the helm or right above the shield. It is also another means of identification. Often times whole families will have the same crest. Often these devices sit upon a wreath.

Often the crest will be an animal but it is not limited to just that. Although they are very common, they are not allways present. It is up to the person designing the Achievement whether one is added or not.

Many times to acompany the crest a crown or coronet will be placed on the helm (or directly above the shield without the helm) with the crest atop it. The following are typical crowns and coronets in use in Europe (particularly England, Ireland and Scotland).