George Best’s 1968 European Cup medal set for auction
HISTORY: George Best's European Cup medal from 1968.
He may have famously said that he spent his money on women, fast cars and drink -- and 'the rest I squandered' -- but George Best had plenty to show for his glittering football career too.
The Man Utd legend was part of Matt Busby's side that completed their European Cup quest in 1968. And the medal that was presented to Best will be put up for auction in London on Friday, a day that marks 80 years since the mercurial player's birth in Belfast.
Best scored a famous goal against Benfica that evening in the extra-time win at Wembley and he was later named European Footballer of the Year at just 22 years old.
The medal has an estimate of £150,000-250,000 (€173,000-€289,000).
“The importance of the medal can’t be understated," says Simon Roberts, Head of Sale at auctioneers Bonhams. "It represents the greatest achievement of a player still considered to be one of the most talented British footballers of all time, a huge cultural icon who would have graced any World Cup; the victory over the favourites Benfica, including Best’s tide-turning goal, was the culmination of the mercurial forward’s career, and symbolised the resurgence of Manchester United under Sir Matt Busby following the 1958 Munich air disaster.”
George Best’s sister, Barbara McNarry, said that ‘out of all of George’s treasure trove of soccer awards the most important thing was his 1968 European Cup Winners’ Medal.’
Best can be seen holding the medal in his right hand, still in its box, whilst holding the trophy with his left, in photographs from the final.
The medal comes to auction from a UK private collection, having first been sold at auction at Bonhams by the executors of George Best's estate in 2010.
