England brooch sells for £1,200 at action

An England brooch formerly owned by Sir Bert Millichip has sold for over £1,200 at an auction, it has been revealed.

The 18ct gold diamond England crest brooch which belonged to a former West Bromwich Albion and Football Association chairman was sold at Fellows Auctioneers in Birmingham.

The brooch, owned by Sir Millichip and his wife, was subject to a “fierce bidding war” during Fellows’ Fine Jewellery sale.

The brooch, which bears with 1996 hallmarks, sold for a hammer price of £900 (£1,202.40 including fees) against an estimate of £600 to £800. Multiple bids were placed on the brooch, with an internet bidder eventually winning the item.

The piece is shaped like a shield, and has an estimated total diamond weight of 1ct. It is of G-H colour, has VS-SI clarity and a length of 3.7cms and weight of 14.8gms. The brooch also has the famous three lion markings, symbolic of the England national football team.

Alex Duffy, jewellery specialist from Fellows Auctioneers, said: “After an online stand-off between bidders, it was fantastic to see the brooch sell so well. 

“It’s always a pleasure to be able to offer unusual and unique items such as this for auction, watching as the enthusiasts and collectors fight it out.” 

He added: “With its interesting provenance and sporting connections it’s unlikely we’ll see something quite like this come up again anytime soon.”