ONE of the finest medal collections in British football will go under the hammer in Chester next week.
Liverpool FC legend Tommy Smith is selling everything he won during his trophy-laden Anfield career.
The 75 lots – which include medals, caps, framed shirts and signed photographs – could generate in the region of £120,000 if they reach their guide price.
Smith, nicknamed the Anfield Iron, said: “It’s something I’ve been thinking about for a long time.
“I’m not skint, I don’t have to do this. But I’m getting old and the money is of more use to me now than the medals.”
The 66-year-old Scouser has two false knees, a false hip and a false elbow – all a result of his long playing career, which began when he signed for his beloved Reds as a schoolboy in 1960.
Smith made 638 appearances for the Merseyside giants up to 1978, winning four league titles, two FA Cups, two UEFA Cups and the European Cup.
He was famously part of Liverpool’s first FA Cup winning side and his medal from that 1965 Wembley victory over Leeds United is expected to fetch about £10,000, with the shirt he wore about £8,000.
The guide price for his 1977 European Cup medal is £10,000.
Bonhams’ sports consultant Dan Davies said: “Tommy is an icon from a remarkable era which will never be repeated. Liverpool have followers all across the world so we’re expecting interest from beyond the UK.”
Other items in next week’s sale include an Argentina shirt worn by the great Diego Maradona in his final international appearance in 1994. It is expected to fetch £8,000-£10,000.
There are also 52 lots consigned by Alex Best, wife of the late George Best.
For further information about the auction, which will be held on Wednesday, February 22, contact Bonhams on 01244 313 936 or visit their website: www.bonhams.com.
