Pele hits the back of the net with his unique memorabilia

One of the best, and best-known, sportspeople of all time is selling his personal collection, writes Des O’Sullivan.

Pele: The Collection, which includes over 2,000 lots, will be sold by Julien’s Auctions over three days at the Mall Galleries, London SW1 next week.

It comprises his vast collection of memorabilia, awards, personal property and iconic items.

Considered the most important football player of all time, Pele’s collection covers everything from his signing with Santos FC in 1956 aged 15 to his post-career humanitarian efforts.

A world record certificate presented to Pele by the Guinness Book of Records for the most career goals.

The three-time World Cup Champion, FIFA Player of the Century (1999) and Brazilian Football legend holds the record as the youngest player to ever play in, and score in, a World Cup Final.

He holds the Guinness World Record for goals scored in a career with 1,283 in the back of the net.

Highlights include Pelé’s Jules Rimet Trophy ($400,000-$600,000), his 1958, 1962 and 1970 World Cup medals ($100,000-$200,000), the 1,000th goal ball ($40,000-$60,000), Pelé’s 1977 NY Cosmos NASL Championship ring ($30,000-$40,000) and the L’Equipe Athlete of the Century Award ($20,000-$30,000).

Pele’s Jules Rimet Trophy at Julien’s Auctions in London next week ($400,000-600,000).

His Santos FC game-worn jersey ($8,000-$10,000) and Santos World Champion sash ($5,000-$7,000), Pelé’s 1960s CBD 1st Place Brazilian Championship (Taca Brasil) Medal ($10,000-$20,000) and a Pelé FIFA 2004 Centennial Order of Merit ($2,000-$4,000).

The entire sale is on view at the Mall Galleries (beside Admiralty Arch) from 10 am to 5pm, today, tomorrow and Monday, and the auction gets under way live and online at 10 am on Tuesday.

Pele’s 1958 FIFA World Cup medal. Brazil were beating France 2-1 at half time in the semi-final when Pele added a hat-trick. He scored two more goals in the final to defeat host nation Sweden, also on a 5-2 scoreline.

A series of videos on Pele: The Collection is available on You Tube.