The coat of arms of the BBC was adopted in March 1927 to represent the purpose and values of the corporation. It is seldom used nowadays except for ceremonial purposes.

Elements

The various elements of the coat of arms were chosen to provide a heraldic translation of the qualities of the BBC. The background of the shield, the mantling (drapery depicted tied to the helmet above the shield) and the collars of the eagles are blue (azure in heraldry). The style of the coat of arms has changed considerably over time; from the style of the motto, the formality of the lion and eagles, the alignment of the shield (it was tilted in early versions, and is now perfectly straight) and the addition of a compartment (the design placed under the shield, a grassy mound in the BBC coat of arms).

Motto

The idealistic BBC motto is most likely based on biblical verses from the Book of Micah and the Book of Isaiah: "Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore. In 1934 the motto was changed to "Quaecunque", meaning "Whatsoever". This was inspired by St Paul's Epistle to the Philippians 4:8: This inspired the dedication that appears in the entrance hall of Broadcasting House: In 1948 the motto reverted to the original.

Usage

Prior to 1986, the logo was used on a few sources, mainly BBC documentation and stationery, or for some uses around studios. In these instances, the coat of arms would not be used directly, but used subtly on other furniture, such as the bollards outside New Broadcasting House, Manchester. Following the redesign in 1986, the coat of arms was used more frequently alongside the main logo. Some examples include: The coat of arms has since largely been superseded by the BBC blocks logo from 1997. It has not been abandoned by the corporation, but no longer appears on programmes or prominently in BBC publications, buildings or other locations.

Badge

The BBC was also granted a heraldic badge of: A Thunderbolt proper thereon a Pellet inscribed with the letters BBC Or.