At the top of the seal was a sailing ship, recalling the legend that all persons born on the high seas, could claim Stepney as their birthplace.

On the left of the seal was a picture of a steam locomotive, for the London and Blackwall Railway, and on the right a loom for the historic weaving industry.

On either side of this were placed smith's tongs, symbol of St Dunstan, patron saint of Stepney.

The crest on the top of the helm featured a mural crown, representing the battlements of the Tower of London.

The Latin motto: A magnis ad maiora, can be translated as from great things to greater.