Sir Stanley Matthews’ Memorabilia Collection Set for Auction

A collection of items previously owned by the renowned football figure, Sir Stanley Matthews, is scheduled for auction. Sir Stanley had presented these pieces to a close acquaintance during the 1990s, and following that individual’s death, his family chose to offer the collection for sale. Among the items featured in the sale, taking place in Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, on December 5, is a footballer of the year trophy presented to Sir Stanley in 1948. Adrian Rathbone of Kinghams Auctioneers stated, “I think the trophy will attract the most interest as it used to sit in Sir Stanley’s study at home.” He further commented, “It certainly has the highest estimate, which is £12,000 – £15,000, and is a sizeable piece, and visual, and there’s a photo of Stanley holding the actual trophy as well.” Sir Stanley participated in nearly 700 matches for Stoke and Blackpool, and earned 54 caps for England. Throughout his career in football, he was also honored with the inaugural European footballer of the year award, an achievement he repeated in 1963. He concluded his professional playing career in 1965 at the age of 50, and passed away in 2000 when he was 85. The auction also comprises several of Sir Stanley’s international caps and one of his football boots. Mr. Rathbone commented, “He has such a following among both old, and younger up-and-coming enthusiasts; being such a legend, and, arguably, the most talented footballer of all time.” In 2014, an FA Cup medal secured by Sir Stanley during the renowned 1953 final between Blackpool and Bolton Wanderers sold for £220,000 at auction, which was four times its estimated value. Mr. Rathbone further remarked, “It’s not a precise art estimating items that are so unique and the provenance is key.” He added, “Having that close connection to such a footballing legend is really very difficult to put a price on.”