The associated coat of arms for the name AVERBACH are recorded in Rietstaps Armorial General. Registered in Germany. A notable member of this name was Berthold AUERBACH (l8l2-l882), the German novelist born in Nordstetten in the Black Forest. He studied at the University of Tubingen, Munich and Heidelberg and in l836 was imprisoned as a member of the students Burschenschaft. Destined for the synagogue he abandoned theology for law, then law for history and philosophy. His best known works are "Barfussele" l856 and "Auf Der Hohe" l865. Frank AUERBACH who was born in l93l was a German born British artist who came to Britain in l939, whose subject matter is figurative including portraits of a few close friends and familiar views of Primrose Hill and Camden Town in London, England. The origin of badges and emblems, are traced to the earliest times, although, Heraldry, in fact, cannot be traced later than the 12th century, or at furthest the 11th century. At first armorial bearings were probably like surnames and assumed by each warrior at his free will and pleasure, his object being to distinguish himself from others. It has long been a matter of doubt when bearing Coats of Arms first became hereditary. It is known that in the reign of Henry V (1413-1422), a proclamation was issued, prohibiting the use of heraldic ensigns to all who could not show an original and valid right, except those 'who had borne arms at Agincourt'. The College of Arms (founded in 1483) is the Royal corporation of heralds who record proved pedigrees and grant armorial bearings. The bulk of European surnames in countries such as England and France were formed in the 13th and 14th centuries. The process started earlier and continued in some places into the 19th century, but the norm is that in the 11th century people did not have surnames, whereas by the 15th century they did. The eagle depicted in the crest is emblematical of fortitude and magnanimity of mind. The Romans used the figure of an eagle for their ensign, and their example has been often followed. It is the device of Russia, Austria, Germany and the United States of America.