Coat of Arms were developed in the Middle Ages as a means of identifying warriors in battle and tournaments. The present function of the Coat of Arms (although still one of identity) serves more to preserve the traditions that arose from its earlier use.

Heraldic artists of old developed their own unique language to describe an individual Coat of Arms. The Coat of Arms illustrated, was drawn by an heraldic artist from the information recorded in ancient heraldic archives.

The Prell Coat of Arms is officially documented in Siebmacher's Wappenbuch. This book covers both noble and non-noble families in all German-speaking areas of central and eastern Europe; the Heraldry Index lists over 100,000 coats of arms found in approximately 800 works.

The original description of the arms (shield) is as follows:

"Drei aufgekehrte schnaufeln, eine gerade gestellt, die beiden andern schraggekreuzt daruber." - German

"Three shovels with the blades upwards, one placed vertically and two crossing diagonally over it." - English

Above the shield and helmet is the crest which is described as:

"Two closed wings charged as the arms of the shield."

Siebmacher's Wappenbuch can be found at the Hamilton County Public Library [Cincinnati Branch], 8th and Walnut Streets, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202. Telephone (513) 369-6000. There are (2) versions of the Prell Coat of Arms; one has (3) shovels with blades upwards and the other has (3) cattails in the same position.

More information can be obtained about the Prell surname through Halbert's Family Heritage, 3687 Ira Road, Bath, Ohio 44210. Telephone: (330) 666-6225.