Edson Arantes do Nascimento known globally as Pele
Edson Arantes do Nascimento known globally as Pele (Photo: Getty)

Football legend, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, more popularly known globally as Pelé, has concluded plans to auction off much of his invaluable memorabilia accumulated over the years as a player.

The highly priced possessions include three World Cup winner’s medals and a Jules Rimet trophy crafted for him after Brazil’s win over Mexico in the 1970 World Cup final.

The creation of this special, Jules Rimet trophy was presented to Pelé in order to commemorate his record achievement of three World Cup victories (Photo: Julien's)
This replica of Jules Rimet trophy was presented to Pelé in order to commemorate his record achievement of three World Cup victories (Photo: Julien’s)

The replica of the World Cup trophy would cost about $600,000 (about N200 million) and each medal would go for a stunning $200,000.

“It was a difficult decision to make but it takes a lot to properly care for these artefacts, and I felt I could do much more good by sharing these items with the world, as well as helping my causes that are important to me,” Pele stated. “I hope they treasure these artefacts and share my story with their children and generations to come.”

“I will also be donating a portion of the proceeds from the auction to Pequeno Principe (Little Prince), the largest paediatric hospital in Brazil.”

A pair of black football boots worn by the legend in the movie “Escape to Victory” ($8,000),1,000th goal ball ($60,000), 1977 New York Cosmos NASL Championship ring ($40,000), 1958 Brazil World Champion sash ($20,000), Santos FC game-worn jersey ($10,000), Santos World Cup Champions sash ($7,000), New York Cosmos jersey ($10,000) and L’Equipe Athlete of the Century award ($30,000) are included in the two thousand items the football icon is auctioning.

Pele's number 10 shirt for the Brazilian national team of 1970 is also up for auction (Photo: Julien's)
Pele’s number 10 shirt for the Brazilian national team of 1970 is also up for auction (Photo: Julien’s)
Pele's North American Soccer League (NASL) championship ring (Photo: REX)
Pele’s North American Soccer League (NASL) championship ring (Photo: REX)
This gold 1962 world cup medal is one of the medals he is auctioning (Photo: Julien's)
This 1962 World Cup Gold Medal is one of the medals he is auctioning (Photo: Julien’s)

The 75 year old FIFA Player of the Century spent much of last year in the hospital for hip, back and prostrate surgeries, making many think it is the reason for the auction.

The auction will be conducted over the internet from June 6th to 7th and is open to international bidders.