In recent years, the realm of sports memorabilia has witnessed a remarkable surge in interest, with some items fetching astonishing prices. While many high-value collectibles originate from the United States, such as a Mickey Mantle baseball card that sold for $12.6 million, rugby memorabilia has also seen a significant increase in value. Some of the most expensive pieces delve deep into the sport’s history, with Guy’s Hospital Rugby Club, the oldest club, dating back to 1843. Let’s delve into some of the rarest rugby memorabilia and offer guidance on what collectors should look for today.
One notable auction took place in 2016 when ‘The Laws of Football as Played at Rugby School,’ the first book of rugby rules, was sold for £13,000. This small red book, printed in 1851, was once owned by former French Prime Minister William Henry Waddington. In 2020, a rare French International Rugby Cap from 1910 fetched £24,000. This cap was presented to Julien Combe of Stade Français during his debut for France in the inaugural 5 Nations Championship. In 2015, an exceptionally rare shirt worn by Dave Gallagher, the first All Blacks Captain, from 1905 sold for £180,000. This shirt was given to a van boy, Thomas Mahoney, at his laundry business and remained with the family ever since. Gallagher, a true legend of the game, is commemorated with a statue outside Eden Park in Auckland.
More recently, a rare 1973 Sir Gareth Edwards’ match-worn Barbarians shirt set a world record when it was auctioned in Cardiff for £240,000 in 2023. Additionally, Philip Green, the former retail tycoon, paid £500,000 for a signed England World Cup Final shirt in 2005. Despite being purchased at a charity auction for the Rainbow Trust children’s charity, it remains the most expensive piece of rugby memorabilia ever bought.
Modern Rarities and Collecting Tips
Unsurprisingly, the highest prices are often reserved for items associated with the most prestigious teams and players, such as those from England, Wales, and New Zealand. If you’re considering starting a collection or seeking a unique piece, it’s wise to collect items that hold personal significance. Whether you attended the 2005 final or are a passionate England fan, owning a piece that connects you to a team or player is invaluable. Besides historical items, signed shirts are among the rarest and most valuable memorabilia today. A fully signed England shirt from 2003 can fetch up to £3,500, while a signed Springboks jersey might cost £2,500. Individual player shirts, like those from Antoine Dupont and Jonny Wilkinson, are available for around £500, and an All Blacks’ Dan Carter shirt for £1,250. However, collecting doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive. Signed photos can be acquired for as little as £10, allowing you to start small and gradually expand your collection.
When purchasing memorabilia, exercise caution with cheaper online auctions, as many fakes circulate with little oversight and no recourse if issues arise. Opt for specialist online stores that offer a wide range of rugby memorabilia. Ensure you receive a signed, preferably holographic, numbered certificate of origin (COA) to protect your investment. The best stores offer a lifetime guarantee and signing proof if available, providing peace of mind. Happy collecting!
