A PIECE of English football history could be ‘coming home’ with you when it is auctioned off next Thursday, January 30.
The 18-carat gold and diamond England crest brooch was awarded to former FA Chairman Sir Bert Millichip when he left the Football Association in 1996.
Sir Bert, who lived in Barnt Green with his wife Lady Barbara Millichip, oversaw drastic changes in English football, including the introduction of the Premier League.
Sir Bert, awarded a Knighthood for services to the beautiful game, was also heavily involved in the appointment of Terry Venables as England manager.
At Euro 96, led by Venables and playing on home soil for the first time since winning the World Cup in 1996, the Three Lions made it through to the semi-final before losing to Germany on penalties.
It is estimated the brooch, worn by Lady Millichip until she passed away in 2015, is worth between £600 and £800.
It shaped like a shield and features the famous three lions and hallmarks from 1996.
Sally Simmonds, daughter of Sir Bert and Lady Millichip, brought the ring to Fellows to auction.
Alex Duffy, Fellows’ jewellery specialist, said: “The three lions are an iconic symbol of English football and this beautifully crafted 18ct gold and diamond brooch makes for a great way to show national support and pride.
“It is an intriguing piece and its ties to the FA and the Millichip family make this a perfect item for any sporting memorabilia enthusiast or collector of rare and unusual jewellery.”
The auction starts at 11am at Fellows Auctioneers, 19 Augusta Street, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham.
Visit fellows.co.uk to bid for the piece online.
