William Bradley’s honour, alongside other match memorabilia and an inscribed pocket watch, had been offered at Newcastle auction house Anderson & Garland (25% buyer’s premium). It got away against an estimate of £5000-7000 following a competitive bidding war both online and via phone.
United won the FA Cup on April 26, 1924, after beating Aston Villa at Wembley.
FA Cup winner’s medal for Newcastle United’s William Bradley, £7800 at Anderson & Garland.
Bradley’s grandson, who was the consignor, said: “Growing up, I always heard tales about Billy’s exceptional performance on the field, including the dramatic save of a penalty. Sadly, I’ve never been able to find any concrete evidence to validate these stories.
“My grandfather passed away before I had the chance to meet him, but his legend as a cup hero and local celebrity was a constant presence in my upbringing. Now, as I hand over the medal that has been tucked away since I inherited it, I feel pleased to share it with the world, especially in this centenary year.
“Hearing from my father about how football kept my grandfather largely out of the horrors of the First World War, with the army utilising him for morale-boosting exhibition matches, adds another layer of complexity to his story.”
