Rare striped Scotland football top worn against England nearly 120 years ago could sell for £1200

A rare striped Scotland football jersey worn nearly 120 years ago is set to go under the hammer for £1200. The unique primrose and pink kit was famously worn by left half Peter “the Great” McWilliam during a historic clash against England on April 6, 1907. The match, which ended in a 1-1 draw at St James’s Park in Newcastle, was part of the prestigious British Home Championship. This iconic jersey, which has been treasured by a Scottish family for over a century, will be the highlight of the upcoming Sporting Legends Memorabilia sale by Graham Budd Auctions on December 4.

Scotland first donned the yellow and pink colours as a tribute to SFA patron Archibald Primrose, 5th Earl of Rosebery, back in 1881. David Convery from Graham Budd Auctions expressed the rarity and exceptional condition of the Scotland shirt in the distinctive Rosebery colours. Peter McWilliam, born in Inverness in 1879, earned eight caps playing for Scotland. He commenced his career with Inverness Thistle before transferring to Newcastle in 1902, where he gained the nickname “Peter the Great.” After his playing career, he went on to manage Tottenham Hotspur until his passing in 1951 at the age of 72.

Joining the bidding for this remarkable piece of football history will certainly attract attention from passionate collectors and enthusiasts alike. The legacy of Peter McWilliam and the significance of this unique Scotland jersey add a touch of nostalgia and historical value to the world of football memorabilia.

In the competitive realm of sports auctions, this sale promises a glimpse into a bygone era of football and offers an opportunity to own a tangible piece of Scotland’s illustrious football heritage. As fans and collectors eagerly await the outcome of the auction, the story behind this rare jersey continues to captivate and preserve a fragment of football history for generations to come.