How Much is the World Cup Trophy Worth?

The World Cup Trophy is one of the most coveted prizes in sports, representing the pinnacle of achievement for national soccer teams around the globe. The trophy is awarded to the winning team of the FIFA World Cup, which takes place every four years. It’s truly the gold standard in futbol/soccer!

The trophy is made of 18-karat gold, weighs 13.5 pounds, and stands 14.4 inches tall. According to estimates from 2022, the trophy is valued at $20 million. However, other estimates have placed its value closer to $250,000, based on the value of the gold alone.

The trophy has undergone several changes over the years, with the current version being introduced in 1974.

Let’s dive into the value of the World Cup trophy!

Historical Value of the World Cup Trophy

FIFA’s Initial Investment

The first World Cup trophy, known as the Jules Rimet Trophy, was designed by French sculptor Abel Lafleur and was awarded to the winners of the tournament from 1930 to 1970. The trophy was made of gold-plated sterling silver and was valued at £30, or approximately $40 at the time of creation.

In 1970, Brazil won the World Cup for the third time, which entitled them to keep the Jules Rimet Trophy permanently. However, the trophy was stolen in 1983 and was never recovered. I wonder if it’s still out there or was dumped. Makes you wonder!

Appraisal Over the Years

The current World Cup trophy was introduced in 1974 and is made of 18-karat gold and malachite. According to The National News, the value of the gold in the trophy is worth $250,000 based on current gold rates.

Since 1974, the value of the World Cup trophy has appreciated significantly. This increase in value is due to a combination of factors, including the rising price of gold and the trophy’s status as one of the most prestigious awards in sports.

In terms of monetary value, the World Cup trophy is estimated to be worth $20 million. However, it is important to note that the trophy’s true value is incalculable due to its cultural and historical significance.

What is the Trophy Made Out Of?

The FIFA World Cup trophy is made of solid 18-karat gold, and it weighs around 6.175 kg. The trophy’s base is made of malachite, a semi-precious stone that is found in Africa.

The use of gold in the trophy’s construction is one of the primary reasons why it is so valuable. The 4,927 grams of 18-karat gold used in the trophy are worth approximately $220,000. The malachite base of the trophy is also valuable, with an estimated value of around $30,000.