By Letter Patent of 1611 (published written order issued by a monarch) James I created Baronets whose knighthood became hereditary. In 1624, to raise money independently of Parliament, James I sold grants of land in Nova Scotia (New Scotland) to Scotsmen. In 1625, Charles I conferred on the holders of this land the title and dignity of Baronets of Nova Scotia with the title of Sir. After the Union with England (1707) English and Scottish baronetcies ceased to be created, being replaced by baronetcies of Great Britain.
The Baronet's Badge is an upright oval badge with a plain ring suspension.