Jack Charlton’s son John has inherited his father’s 1966 World Cup winner’s medal, but the prized trophy comes with a hefty inheritance tax bill.
Jack Charlton, who played centre‑back in England’s 4‑2 victory over West Germany, passed away in 2020 at the age of 85 after a long illness.
According to the terms of his father’s will, the medal was left to John. However, the UK inheritance tax regime would require a payment of £200,000, representing 40 percent of the value that exceeds the £325,000 threshold.
To avoid the tax, John has transferred the medal to his 91‑year‑old mother, Pat, who now holds it. By keeping the trophy in her name, the family can defer the tax liability.
The medal, along with Jack’s World Cup shirt and a single England cap, is stored in a secure location. The family keeps the items out of public view to preserve their condition.
In 2022, a similar 1966 World Cup medal belonging to Alan Ball sold at auction for £200,000, illustrating the high monetary value attached to these historic trophies.
The situation highlights the financial challenges that families of historic sporting figures can face when valuable memorabilia is subject to inheritance tax.
