How did a family obtain a coat of arms as noted in the biography, Will in the World?

In Elizabethan times, formal coats of arms could only be owned or presented by the aristocracy. Shakespeare's father attempted to purchase a coat of arms for his family, but failed. The attempt was later revived by Will, who in later life became a wealthy landowner as well as a successful playwright. His attempt was successful, but he was frequently mocked for having ambitions above his station.