There is a very great misconception amongst the general public that coats of arms have a meaning (hidden or otherwise). Although there are some charges that might have a meaning to the bearer, as a general rule of thumb there is no meaning - at all.
In the earliest times, shields had geometric shapes or animals (often mythical). The shield had to be easily recognizable. No one wanted to be killed because they were mistaken for someone else.
Later, tradesmen started to use arms. All types of tools were represented on shields. They could be said to have meaning, as they gave a clue to the trade of the owner. But as arms are inheritable, the son might not follow the same trade as the father and the meaning would no longer be pertinent.
As to your shield -
The vertical lines indicate that the field was red. Or, it indicates that the field had vertical stripes, it is impossible to tell.
The stripe is called a bend sinister (sinister means to the wearer's left)
On the bend sinister are three mullets of six points (the default is five points. If there are more than five, it must be stated).
The scrolly stuff on the outside of the shield is just artisrty and means nothing.
The crown might indicate the bearer was a noble, Or again it could just be an artistic embellishment.
A bit more information as to whom the arms belonged and where in the world they came from, might yeald further clues.
Regards
Chas
