The FA Cup, the world's oldest national football competition, carries a rich history and embodies the spirit of English football. Integral to this legacy is the prestigious FA Cup trophy, a symbol of triumph and prestige that has evolved throughout the competition's storied history.
It's one of the most iconic and famous sports trophies in the world, and has been engraved with 44 winners from the best English teams including inaugreal winners Wanderers, Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspurs, Manchester City and Aston Villa.
The evolution of this trophy has seen changes in materials used, refining the engraving process, and addressing controversies. The historical significance of this award has necessitated various restoration efforts throughout the years.
Original design from 1871
The inception of the FA Cup in the 1871-72 season brought with it the creation of the original trophy, a symbol of victory that has become iconic in the world of English football.
Named 'little tin idol' was 18 inches high and made by Sheffield Silversmiths Martin, Hall & Co at a cost of £20. Details of the trophy are scarce as it was stolen in 1895 and rumoured to have been melted down and turned into silver coins.
1895 replica
The 1895 replacement of the prestigious silverware exist, was an exact replica of the original. It was retired for a new design in 1911 and gifted to Lord Kinnaird, the president of the FA. It was sold by his estate in 2005 for £420,000 and bought by David Gold. The Birmingham City chairman presented the trophy to the National Football Museum, although it was again sold at auction. In a repeat, it was bought by the owner of Manchester City, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who returned it on loan to the National Football Museum.
Current design from 1911
This Football Association Cup version was made by Fattorini & Sons, the Bradford based jewellers and trophy makers who also made the Rugby League Challenge Cup.
The second style of design comes in three parts; the cup itself, plus a lid and a base, and was larger at 61.5 cm (24.2 inches) high.
The name of the winning team is engraved on the silver base for the presentation ceremony, and has been replaced twice due to damage.
1992 replica
To preserve the original, a 1992 exact replica was made by FA Cup medal manufacturers Toye, Kenning and Spencer. A copy of this trophy was also produced, in case anything happened to the primary trophy. And it also showcases the importance of trophy restoration with damage caused by heavy handling.
2014 replica
Due to wear and tear, a 2014 replica was made by Silversmiths Thomas Lyte, handcrafted in sterling 925 silver and weighting 6.3 kilograms.
